NASS Critiques Livestock Ministry's Funding Crisis

The National Assembly expressed strong discontent regarding the Livestock Ministry's lack of capital release, revealing that 65% of meat consumed in Nigeria is imported. During a budget defense session, Alhaji Idi Mukhta Maiha, the Livestock Development Minister, disclosed that only N20 billion of the N70 billion approved for the ministry in 2024 had been released, with no capital vote for 2025.

This situation drew sharp criticism from lawmakers, including Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi South), who described the funding situation as contradictory to the federal government's economic diversification efforts. Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North) emphasized the need for urgent intervention from President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the potential for Nigeria to leverage its livestock resources for economic growth.

Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) alleged possible sabotage regarding the non-release of funds. The committee urged leadership to formally seek the President's intervention to resolve the funding crisis, which is critical for the ministry's mandate and the nation's economic stability.