Dr. Muhammad Goje, a veterinarian has commended the Borno State government on the establishment of a new Ministry of Livestock, noting that the initiative would open numerous opportunities for veterinarians and other stakeholders in the livestock industry.
He said that the establishment is a transformative step that can revolutionize the livestock industry in the state, the Northeast region and Nigeria at large.
Goje said this in an exclusive interaction with 9News Nigeria on Saturday.
The establishment of the new ministry was announced by the state governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum in Maiduguri, where he noted that the ministry would be headed by his deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur as a supervisory commissioner.
Emphasizing the importance of the establishment, the veterinary doctor said that investment in livestock has numerous prospects and opportunities for veterinarians, livestock businessmen, herders and farmers among others, which he believes will ”significantly contribute to the state’s socio-economic development.”
Some of the prospects and opportunities for veterinarians he highlighted includes; increased employment opportunities, capacity building, infrastructural development, and research and collaboration.
“The ministry will likely recruit veterinarians to fill positions in disease control, livestock management, and extension services. Veterinarians may also find roles in policy formulation, regulatory oversight, and research.
“Training and development programs for veterinarians could enhance their skills, especially in emerging areas like zoonotic disease control and modern animal husbandry practices,” he said.
He also noted that if the ministry establishes veterinary clinics, diagnostic labs, and mobile veterinary units, it will open avenues for veterinarians to operate in rural and underserved areas of the state.
“The ministry may fund research initiatives to address livestock diseases and improve productivity, creating opportunities for veterinarians to lead or collaborate on these projects,” he added.
On other benefits for livestock businessmen and herders, Goje said that the ministry’s programs would improved animal health services, access to market and the overall economic growth in the state.
He added that the programs can reduce farmers-herders conflict as well.
Stating further, he said that “with more veterinarians deployed, access to preventive care, vaccination programs, and disease treatments will improve, reducing livestock mortality rates.
“Livestock productivity and quality could increase through improved breeding programs, disease control, and modern husbandry techniques, boosting incomes for businessmen and herders.
“The ministry can facilitate better market access, regulation, and value chain development, benefiting livestock traders and producers.
“Structured programs for herders, such as grazing reserves and improved veterinary care, could reduce disputes between farmers and herders.”
On a broader perspective for economic growth in the state and beyond, Dr. Goje, now an administrator, said that the ministry would contribute immensely to food security ambition.
Healthier livestock, he said, will contribute to increased production of meat, milk, and other products, improving nutrition and food security in Borno.
Noting further, Goje asserted that a thriving livestock sector can diversify the state’s economy and create new revenue streams.
“Borno State could become a hub for livestock development in Nigeria and the Sahel region, attracting investment and expertise,” he said.
While congratulating Borno State government for the giant strides, he advice the government to prioritize the involvement of veterinarians, herders, and businessmen in the ministry’s strategic planning to ensure it addresses their needs.
He added that the establishment should also open-up to public-private partnership, adding that collaborations with the private sector players and NGOs can enhance the ministry’s capacity to deliver services effectively.
Similarly, Goje said that the promotion of livestock exports beyond the state should be harnessed to create wealth and job opportunities for the timing youth population.
“Continuous training for veterinarians and capacity-building initiatives for livestock farmers should be prioritized to modernize the sector,” he said.
Dr. Goje, held from Yobe State, studied veterinary medicine in University of Maiduguri and obtained a post graduate degree on public health in Malaysia.
As an administrator, he is currently the executive secretary, Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), an office he has been occupying since 2019.
