Chairman, Kogi state chapter of Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr. Tolu Omotugba, has applauded the decision of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to establish the Ministry of Livestock Development in the state.
Speaking with newsmen in Lokoja on Sunday, Dr. Omotugba the new ministry of livestock development will in no doubt, among other advantages, increase the revenue generation capacity of the state, create employment opportunities for the teaming population of Kogites, improve on the livestock productivity and strength of the state.
Dr Omotugba added that the new ministry offers an improvement on the animal health status of the state, improve on animal disease surveillance and quick response to animal diseases which can undoubtedly affect human health and most importantly, put a final end to the issue of herders/farmers crisis which will consequently help to improve farming activities and reduce cost of food items in the market.
“We applaud the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, for his prompt approval for the creation of Ministry of Livestock in Kogi State. Though, long overdue, as at today, Kogi State is one of the few states that have already domesticated the Ministry of Livestock Development since the pronouncement and the establishment of Ministry by the Federal Government under the leadership of Mr. President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Kogi state is blessed with an unprecedented number of livestock, and as a State that shares boundaries with ten states in the country, serve as gate-way to the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western parts of the country, it can not afford to be left out in this positive development. Hence, this prompt action of his Excellency to approve the creation of the new Ministry is highly commendable and a good step in the right direction. This singular action of His Excellency had put Kogi State on a very high pedestal among the committee of States in Nigeria that are ready to take livestock development to the highest level,” he said.
Dr. Omotugba appealed to Governor Ododo to as a matter of fact appoint a competent, experienced and hardworking Veterinarian to pilot the affairs of the new ministry in laying strong foundation upon which subsequent development will continue to thrive.
He stressed that the health of animals and humans can never be toyed with, lest we face grievous consequences especially, where a non-health related professional heads such a ministry.
He reaffirmed the Association’s unflinching support to Governor Ododo, and pledged Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association’s readiness to partner with him to achieve all his laudable programs geared towards moving the State to an enviable height.
