The Benue State Government has unveiled plans to carry out a livestock census aimed at collecting detailed data on animals and their owners throughout the state.
The Principal Special Assistant to the State Governor on Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Disease Control, Dr. Aondoaka Asambe, made the announcement on Monday in Makurdi following his inspection of abattoirs and livestock markets.
Dr. Asambe explained that the primary goal of the census is to tackle the ongoing farmers-herders conflicts and other criminal activities in the state.
He emphasized that the governor is committed to revitalizing the livestock sector to boost its contribution to the state’s economy.
“Conducting a livestock census offers numerous benefits,” Dr. Asambe remarked. “First and foremost, it will help manage the recurring clashes between farmers and herders in the state. Additionally, it will help combat cattle rustling. After the census, animals will be tagged and easily traceable to their owners. This tagging system will also extend to animals at abattoirs, greatly reducing crime within the industry.”
He further detailed plans to register livestock farmers, hatcheries, and feed mills to meet the local demand in the short term, while aiming to rejuvenate livestock enterprises and enhance production through improved breeds in the medium and long term.
Asambe also raised concerns about the dilapidated state of abattoirs in Makurdi, pointing out that none of them met the required standards for slaughterhouses.
He identified the lack of access to clean water, poor roads, and inadequate hygiene as major obstacles.
In response, Mr. Austin Ugwu, Chairman of the Meat Shop Owners Association in Makurdi, urged the state government to create a conducive environment for their businesses to prosper.
