Zulum’s Ranch: A Model for Nigeria, Says Jega
Former INEC Chairman and co-chair of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, lauded Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for establishing a pioneering cattle ranch in Nigeria.
During the Saturday commissioning of the Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement in Mafa LGA, a project undertaken by Zulum’s administration with federal government support, Professor Jega stated: “I witnessed something unprecedented in our nation today. This demonstrates a leader’s vision, passion, and dedication to driving economic growth, improving livelihoods, and creating jobs for our citizens.”
Jega further emphasized, “Borno State’s leadership and commitment to livestock development are commendable, as evidenced by this project.” He also praised the state’s proactive approach, highlighting the launch of the Annual Animal Vaccination Scheme, livestock distribution programs for livelihood restoration and economic empowerment, and the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development and the Borno State Livestock Management Agency (BOLMA).
Governor Zulum, in his address, explained that the Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement, a 4-square kilometer project, was designed to accommodate 461 nomadic families displaced by Boko Haram insurgency. Each family received a house, pairs of bulls and heifers, goats, and a humanitarian relief package.
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The project boasts a comprehensive range of facilities, including a residential area with roads, schools, health clinics, veterinary services, state-of-the-art dairy and beef upgrading centers, pasture development centers, milk collection centers, earth dams for water supply, markets to facilitate local trade, and security outposts to ensure a safe and secure environment.
Minister Honors Zulum
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, expressed admiration for Governor Zulum’s commitment to livestock development by presenting him with the ministry’s logo.
“I am delighted to join you for the commissioning of this remarkable project,” the minister said. “Governor Zulum, I wholeheartedly congratulate you on this laudable initiative that will significantly benefit the people of Borno State and Nigeria as a whole, contributing to our nation’s food security.”
Deputy Governor Emphasizes Commitment
Earlier, Borno State Deputy Governor and Commissioner for the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Dr. Umar Usman Kadafur, in his welcome address, highlighted that Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement is one of three such centers established by the Zulum administration, one in each senatorial district.
“While Ngarannam is being commissioned today, the other two centers are nearing completion,” Dr. Kadafur stated. “These centers symbolize our dedication to sustainable development, peaceful coexistence, and economic empowerment for our people.”
By PRNigeria
