FG to standardise Animal transport system – Minister
By Gabriel Agbeja
The Federal Government has announced its plans to establish a framework to standardise animal transportation nationwide.
Transportation Minister Sen. Said Alkali, represented by Permanent Secretary Mr Adeleye Adeoye, emphasised the need for a standardised approach to livestock transport by road, rail, ship, boat, and air.
He spoke at the National conference titled ‘Developing a Policy Framework for Transportation of Livestock in Nigeria’ on Wednesday in Abuja.
He noted the role livestock transport plays in connecting rural producers with urban markets.
Alkali outlined current challenges in Nigeria’s livestock transport, including inadequate infrastructure, animal welfare concerns, and logistical inefficiencies that increase costs for both producers and consumers.
“With a population of over 200 million, we cannot continue with the status quo.
“We need a safe, efficient, hygienic, sustainable, and humane animal transport system that aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda”.
He noted that addressing these issues would require a comprehensive, collaborative approach and expressed confidence in the conference, convened by the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT).
According to him, it will engage policymakers, transport operators, livestock producers, and other stakeholders in shaping solutions.
Alkali assured attendees that recommendations from the conference would be prioritised by the ministry, in cold with relevant agencies, to implement effective changes.
“By addressing gaps in livestock transport, we can boost our agricultural sector, support food security, and drive national economic development”.
NITT Director-General, Dr Bayero Farah, noted the complexities of livestock transport.
He emphasised the need for regulations around loading, unloading, temperature control, and safe transit conditions to ensure humane and effective animal movement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
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