Sokoto — The Minister of Livestock Development, Mr Idi Maiha, on Thursday inaugurated new artificial insemination and livestock care centres in Sokoto State, a landmark intervention designed to boost animal production and modernize Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Maiha described the centres as strategic hubs that will strengthen veterinary services, improve animal husbandry practices, and enhance productivity. He noted that the remodelled veterinary hospital in Sokoto would deliver quality care, diagnostics, and support for infrastructure, laying the foundation for a sustainable livestock industry.
The Minister also unveiled a national mass vaccination programme for livestock, aimed at curbing disease outbreaks, improving herd health, and unlocking economic benefits for farmers. He emphasized that the initiative expands the livestock value chain, empowering rural communities across the North-West and beyond.
“These centres will serve as hubs for veterinary care, livestock training, breed improvement, and youth empowerment, providing vital support to pastoralists and farmers,” Maiha said.
He highlighted the federal government’s broader agenda to reposition the livestock subsector, align projects with national development plans, and integrate the centres into a nationwide network to support commercial livestock systems, combat animal diseases, and drive sustainable agricultural growth.
Maiha expressed gratitude to the World Bank, which is partnering with Nigeria under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-Press). He explained that the Sokoto model hospital is one of 20 expected nationwide to improve animal health, support farmers, and strengthen veterinary infrastructure.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State lauded the intervention, noting that the livestock service centre complements state-led agricultural reforms. He said the initiative would enhance food security, create jobs, encourage youth participation in agribusiness, and help mitigate the impact of banditry on livestock production.
Dr Muhammad Sanusi, National Coordinator of the Livestock Development Programme, commended the Minister’s leadership, stressing that the project would attract private sector partnerships, development agencies, and educational institutions. He expressed optimism that the centres would improve access to essential services, enhance livestock health, and open new economic opportunities for farmers.As part of the launch, equipment and agricultural commodities were distributed to train farmers and livestock breeders from communities across Sokoto State under the L-Press initiative.
