FCTA champions livestock development to boost food security

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening livestock production to boost food security and promote sustainable agricultural development across Nigeria.

Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, made this known at the 2025 National Pasture Planting Day held at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Bwari Area Council, Abuja.

She explained that pasture planting is more than a farming activity, stressing that it is a key intervention to ensure the year-round availability of quality feed for livestock, reduce overgrazing and land degradation, and advance the transition to modern, settled livestock systems.

According to the minister, these efforts will not only increase productivity but also help prevent conflicts, foster peaceful coexistence, and protect the environment.

Describing the Kawu Grazing Reserve as a strategic agricultural asset within the Federal Capital Territory, Mahmoud noted that with enhanced pasture management, improved water infrastructure, and expanded veterinary services, the reserve has the potential to serve as a model for other states nationwide.

She said this would enhance milk and meat production, create employment opportunities, and support harmonious relations among rural communities.

The minister commended the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development for leading the initiative and acknowledged the dedication of farmers, herders, and development partners who continue to innovate within the sector.

Mahmoud also reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to supporting pasture development projects that secure the future of Nigeria’s livestock industry, describing the planting event as a symbol of a shared vision for abundance, peace, and prosperity.

According to her, “The National Pasture Planting Day event underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proactive approach to overcoming challenges in the livestock sector, particularly the consistent availability of quality animal feed, positioning Nigeria toward a more modern, productive, and profitable livestock value chain.”

Also speaking, Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, noted that the event marked not just the planting of seeds in the soil but the sowing of a vision — the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda for reviving grazing reserves, fostering sustainable livestock development, advancing environmental stewardship, encouraging peaceful pastoral practices, and economically empowering millions of Nigerians who depend on livestock for their livelihoods.

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Maiha revealed that the ministry is investing in the release and registration of pasture varieties into the national seed system, noting that eight varieties have been released for the first time in 48 years.

He assured that the present administration is fully committed to implementing the National Livestock Growth Association Strategy — approved by the National Economic Council — and other policy frameworks that promote peace, productivity, and prosperity in the livestock sector.

The minister called for collaboration and cooperation both within communities and between communities and government to ensure the success of grazing reserves.

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