The Oyo State Government has called for a partnership with the newly inaugurated executive council of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) to promote peace and ensure food security in the state.
The state urged the association to work with Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in fostering harmonious coexistence among its members and the wider community.
Speaking during the inauguration of MACBAN’s new executives, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the importance of collaboration with stakeholders in farming and related businesses.
Represented by Dr. Adeniran Liadi Mobolaji, Deputy Director of Veterinary Services, Olaleye assured the association of the government’s open-door policy and lauded Governor Makinde’s proactive efforts in resolving herder-farmer clashes in Oyo State.
He emphasized the administration’s initiatives to boost livestock production, including free vaccination campaigns for large animals across the state’s 33 local government areas. This includes 250,000 doses of PPR vaccines for sheep and goats, as well as anthrax vaccinations for cattle.
The commissioner also referenced the state’s intervention programs introduced after the Federal Government removed fuel subsidies in May 2023. Among these is the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiative, aimed at improving the cattle value chain and enhancing livestock production.
Olaleye urged MACBAN members to prioritize peace, stating, “I encourage you to support this administration in fostering peaceful coexistence and contributing to food security through active participation in farming and business. The government cannot achieve this alone.”
In his remarks, MACBAN National President Baba Usman Ngelzarma praised Governor Makinde’s consistent support for herdsmen and suggested the state replicate the Federal Ministry of Livestock model at the local level. He also endorsed the state’s herdsmen identification and profiling system as a means of distinguishing law-abiding members from criminal elements.
Similarly, the Seriki Fulani of Lagos, Muhammed Bambado II, commended Governor Makinde for his leadership and support of herding communities in Oyo State. He urged herders to conduct themselves responsibly in their activities.
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to peace, cooperation, and improved livestock management in Oyo State.
