Agriculture
Kogi’s Community Gears Up For Transformative Agricultural Show To Boost Food Security
By Salifu Usman, Abuja
Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch in Dekina local government area as the Aloko Oganenigu Agricultural Show prepares to open its gates. Thousands of farmers from within the community, across Kogi State, and even further afield are set to converge, ready to proudly display a diverse array of their agricultural produce at what promises to be a landmark event for the region’s agricultural sector.
Beyond the vibrant showcase of crops and livestock, the initiative holds a profound objective: to ignite a passion for agriculture among younger generations. Organisers envision the show as a catalyst, inspiring youth to embrace farming as a viable and rewarding pathway towards sustainable development and robust economic growth for the state.
The event is not merely a local affair; its significance is underscored by the high-profile attendance expected. Academia, key policymakers, top security experts, and a host of influential politicians are slated to grace the occasion. Notably, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside both federal and state lawmakers, will be present, highlighting the government’s commitment to agricultural development.
Elder Michael Alfa, the visionary initiator and patron of the organising body, the Aloko Oganenigu Township Development Forum, expressed immense satisfaction with the overwhelming community support. “The overwhelming support received from individuals, groups, and stakeholders across the Oganenigu community has laid a strong foundation for what promises to be a historic and transformative agricultural event,” stated Elder Alfa. He further emphasised that this remarkable outpouring of unity, commitment, and shared responsibility reflects a common vision for development, enhanced food security, and the economic upliftment of Oganenigu community and beyond.
Elder Alfa extended his heartfelt appreciation to all donors and supporters, whose generosity has been instrumental in bringing the show to fruition. He noted that their contributions have not only energised the planning process but have also fortified the conviction that, with unity, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome. He used a powerful local adage to illustrate this point: “just as a united community can tie down a lion.” This sentiment resonates deeply within a community striving for progress and collective prosperity.
Providing an update on the extensive preparations, Aminu Haruna, chairman of the Aloko Oganenigu Township Development Forum, assured stakeholders that the organising team remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering an impactful, inclusive, and innovative agricultural exhibition. “As activities intensify, the organising team remains committed to delivering an impactful, inclusive, and innovative agricultural exhibition,” Hon. Haruna affirmed. He reiterated that the core aims of the event are multifaceted: to empower local farmers with new knowledge and opportunities, to inspire greater youth participation in the agricultural sector, and to robustly showcase the rich agro-potential of the Oganenigu community. Ultimately, these efforts are geared towards bolstering food security and fostering long-term sustainability within the region and Kogi State as a whole.
Agriculture
House Moves to Overhaul Livestock Sector, Investigate ₦498.7m Unpaid Poultry Farmers’ Compensation — Wale Raji
By Cyril Ogar
The House of Representatives Committee on Livestock Development has announced plans to overhaul Nigeria’s livestock sector and investigate the Federal Government’s failure to pay ₦498.7 million in compensation to 307 verified poultry farmers affected by bird flu outbreaks between 2021 and 2023..
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Wale Raji, disclosed this on Thursday during a public hearing on six livestock-related bills held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja. The proposed bills seek to establish livestock colleges and research institutes across the country to promote animal production, veterinary education, and professional training.
Raji explained that the public hearing was convened to enable stakeholders to contribute ideas aimed at strengthening livestock development and resolving the challenges faced by farmers, particularly those impacted by avian influenza.
“This engagement provides stakeholders a platform to make meaningful input that will enhance productivity, create jobs, and promote sustainable livestock growth,” Raji stated.“However, we are deeply concerned about the delay in compensating affected poultry farmers, and we are determined to ensure transparency and accountability in the entire process.”
₦498.7 Million Still Outstanding
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, confirmed that ₦498.7 million remains unpaid to 307 poultry farmers whose flocks were destroyed during bird flu outbreaks between 2021 and 2023.
According to him, ₦3.16 billion had earlier been disbursed to 1,055 farmers affected by previous outbreaks, but the latest phase of payments was stalled due to funding shortfalls. He added that a recent outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, led to the culling of over 2,000 birds, with compensation yet to be processed.
Adedoyin attributed the delay to inadequate budgetary provisions and the absence of an Animal Diseases Contingency or Emergency Fund (ADEF), explaining that no dedicated fund for animal disease response has existed since 2021.
“Most affected farmers also lack insurance coverage as required by law, further complicating the compensation process,” he said.
He noted that in 2022, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a revised compensation formula—50% from the Federal Government, 25% from the state, and 25% from farmers—restricting eligibility to smallholders with flocks under 3,000 birds.
Lawmakers Push Livestock Reform Agenda
Hon. Raji emphasized that the committee’s probe and reform efforts are in line with the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), which seeks to modernize animal husbandry, enhance veterinary services, and improve productivity across the value chain.
“Our goal is to build a vibrant and sustainable livestock sector that contributes meaningfully to food security, employment generation, and economic diversification,” he said.“We will also work to ensure that farmers receive their compensation and that government creates an emergency response fund to prevent future delays.”
He assured that the committee will pursue full implementation of the hearing’s recommendations to strengthen policy, research, and training in the livestock industry.
Push for New Livestock Institutions
Among the bills under consideration is one sponsored by Hon. Bello Ka’oje (Kebbi State) seeking to establish the Federal College of Animal Husbandry, Ka’oje. The proposed college will serve as a centre for research, training, and innovation in livestock production.
Ka’oje said the institution would improve animal breeding, promote best practices in livestock care, and drive productivity and employment.
“This initiative aims to advance livestock development through professional training and innovation,” he stated.“It will help strengthen food security, create jobs, and raise the standard of animal production in Nigeria.”
He noted that Nigeria continues to trail behind countries such as Egypt, Kenya, and Ethiopia, ranking 94th in global milk production and 33rd in meat production as of 2022, despite its vast agricultural resources.
Commitment to Accountability and Growth
Hon. Wale Raji reaffirmed the House’s commitment to transparency and effective oversight in livestock management.
“We will ensure that every stakeholder in the livestock value chain benefits from government policies and programmes,” he said.“Our ultimate goal is to reposition the livestock industry as a key driver of national growth, rural development, and economic stability.”
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