Kogi State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, has announced plans to construct a cattle route mega gate with an attached 10-hectare withholding ranch to enhance livestock management, security, and documentation across the state.
He made this known while hosting the Chairman of the Livestock Dealers Association, Alhaji Mohammed Hassan Danbauchi, in his office.
According to the Commissioner, the proposed facility will serve as a central point for livestock tagging, health management, temporary ranching, and verification.
“We are building a gate and, immediately behind it, a 10-hectare ranch that will accommodate both pasture and crops,” he explained. “There will be adequate water supply and necessary facilities. Any untagged livestock brought in will be registered and tagged on-site for a nominal fee, which will also help in tracking animals in case of theft.”
Dr. Bolarin further revealed that the Ministry will provide free vaccination services and allow animals to be slaughtered at designated abattoirs free of charge, while livestock owners will be able to access interest-free financial support through the NAIC.
In his remarks, Alhaji Mohammed Hassan Danbauchi commended the Commissioner and his team for the successful implementation of National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) in Kogi State, describing it as a significant step toward reducing cattle rustling and improving livestock trade security.
He recalled recent incidents of livestock theft that led to the loss of cattle and lives, stressing that the NAITS and proposed Cattle Route Gate would help prevent such occurrences.
He also revealed that the association has introduced a receipt and waybill system, now recognized as a by-law governing livestock movement and trade between major markets such as Okene, Kabba, Lokoja, and other cattle markets across the state.
Alhaji Danbauchi appealed to the government to provide additional security support to ensure the smooth operation and success of these initiatives.
He said with the successful launch of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) and the proposed Cattle Route Mega Gate with a 10-hectare ranch, Kogi State under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is taking decisive and innovative steps toward achieving a modern, secure, and sustainable livestock sector that empowers farmers, enhances food security, and drives rural development.
