Federal Government has commissioned an Artificial Insemination and Animal Breed Multiplication Centre in Sokoto State as part of efforts to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector and strengthen rural economies.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, inaugurated the facility on Thursday shortly after laying the foundation for a Livestock Development Service Centre in the state.
Speaking at the event, the minister said revitalising the livestock industry and empowering rural communities remain critical to building a sustainable national economy.
He noted that modernising livestock business practices would significantly improve productivity and expand opportunities along the livestock value chain.
Maiha explained that the newly commissioned centre is designed to play a strategic role in the sector’s growth.
According to him, the “centre will serve as a hub for veterinary care, livestock training, breed improvement services, and youth empowerment as well as provide vital support to pastoralists and farmers in the region.”
He added that the project aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda to reposition the livestock sub-sector, integrate key initiatives with national development plans, and unlock economic opportunities for rural communities.
Reiterating the ministry’s long-term vision, the minister said the government plans to link similar facilities across the country into a coordinated national network capable of supporting commercial livestock systems, combating animal diseases, and promoting sustainable agricultural growth.
Maiha also expressed appreciation to international partners for their support, stating, “We are grateful for the World Bank’s support for the Livestock Development Programme.”
He further assured that the ministry remains committed to strengthening collaboration with the World Bank and other development partners to accelerate livestock development in Nigeria.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of the Livestock Development Programme, Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, praised the minister for what he described as strong leadership and clear vision in advancing the livestock development agenda nationwide.
In his remarks, Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, welcomed the initiative, saying the Livestock Development Service Centre would complement ongoing state-led agricultural reforms. He noted that the project would boost food security and create employment opportunities for young people through increased participation in agribusiness across communities in the state.
The governor also highlighted the state government’s efforts to address banditry, which he described as a major setback to livestock production in Sokoto.
Community leaders and livestock rearers at the event expressed gratitude for the intervention, saying the centre would improve access to essential services, enhance animal health, and open up new economic opportunities for smallholder farmers across the region.
