In a bid to alleviate the plight of cattle farmers affected by the 2022 flood disaster, the Federal Government of Nigeria has extended a helping hand to 80 such farmers in Oyo State. The palliatives were disbursed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) at Moore Plantation, Apata, Ibadan, on Friday.
Dr. Florence Kakulu, the FMAFS Coordinator in Oyo State, addressed the recipients, emphasizing the careful selection of the beneficiaries from across the state. Each farmer received three bags of cotton seed cake, three blocks of salt lick, and a cash grant. Dr. Kakulu expressed optimism that this support would alleviate the burdens inflicted by the flood disaster and acknowledged the empathetic message conveyed by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, to the affected livestock farmers.
Underlining the broader impact of climate change on the livestock sub-sector, Dr. Kakulu emphasized the necessity for proactive measures to mitigate its effects. This initiative, she stressed, is not only a short-term intervention but also a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to advancing the renewed hope agenda of his administration, furthering economic prosperity within the livestock industry and beyond.
Mr. Ibinade Akeem, Deputy Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry at FMAFS, underscored the importance of providing the right supplements to ensure the health of the cattle. His remarks served to emphasize the pivotal role of proper nutrition in livestock care.
Alhaji Salaudeen Moruf, South-West Coordinator of the Cattle Breeders and Dealers Association, lauded the ministry for its support to the cattle breeders and dealers. The recognition and assistance extended by the federal government, according to Moruf, mark a significant departure from the past, wherein the focus was primarily on crop farmers.
Furthermore, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, represented by Mrs. O. Akinloye, encouraged farmers to join associations to avail themselves of government support—an essential reminder of the potential benefits of collective action.
Alhaji Raheem Abubakar, the Chairman of the Myeti Allah Association in Oyo State, pledged the association’s dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence. He succinctly emphasized the foundational role of peace in driving sustainable development within the state.
This initiative stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering resilience within the agricultural sector, addressing the immediate needs of those affected by unforeseen natural disasters, and bolstering the economic prospects of livestock farmers across the region.
