Tinubu picks ex-INEC boss Jega to fix farmer-herder crisis—right man or wrong choice?

DDM News

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Jega as Presidential Adviser and Coordinator of Presidential Livestock Reforms.

As gathered by Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the announcement was made on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.

Jega, best known for his role as INEC chairman, now takes on the challenge of reforming Nigeria’s troubled livestock sector.

His new responsibility involves modernizing livestock production and addressing long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders.

In September 2024, Tinubu received a 152-page report detailing recommendations for resolving the crisis in the livestock industry.

After meeting with Tinubu, Jega stressed that ranching and open grazing must coexist during the transition to full-scale ranching.

The committee warned that an outright ban on open grazing could be disastrous due to inadequate infrastructure and low awareness.

Instead, they recommended a gradual shift to ranching, supported by government policies, education, and advanced livestock technologies.

In October 2024, Tinubu addressed a two-day Stakeholders’ Consultative Workshop on Livestock Reforms in Abuja.

He reassured Nigerians that his government is committed to ending farmer-herder clashes and unlocking the sector’s economic potential.

Over 350 stakeholders attended, discussing challenges, policy execution, and investment opportunities in Nigeria’s livestock industry.

Tinubu pointed out rising foreign investor interest, emphasizing the need for modernization in meat and dairy production.

The committee suggested establishing ranching zones with water access, veterinary services, and security for long-term sustainability.

President Tinubu insisted that livestock reform is essential for economic stability, food security, and national peace.

Jega, in his new position, will oversee policy execution, stakeholder negotiations, and conflict resolution strategies.

Tinubu assured the public that his administration is fully dedicated to reforming the livestock sector through sustainable strategies.

The goal is to modernize livestock farming while fostering peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.

Jega’s appointment has sparked debate—is he the right man for the job, or just a political compromise?

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