Niger State Governor Umaru Bago Addresses Cattle Rustling Concerns.
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has expressed serious concerns regarding the infiltration of cattle rustlers in the state, which poses a significant threat to local livestock and regional stability. His remarks were made during a stakeholders’ consultative meeting focused on implementing the State Trade Animal Movement Security and Veterinary Inspection Permit, held in Minna.
Governor Bago emphasized the alarming rise in cattle rustling and attributed part of the problem to negotiations with bandits in various regions. He stressed the need for immediate action and vowed to seek intervention from the President and the National Security Adviser to address this increasing threat.
During the meeting, Governor Bago also discussed the issue of unregulated slaughtering practices, stating that strict measures would be put in place to ensure that only meat from certified abattoirs enters the market.
He highlighted the importance of vaccinating livestock entering Niger State as a safeguard for public health.
The Governor issued a directive prohibiting farming activities along the highway right-of-way and warned herders against allowing their cattle to graze on private farmland, stating that violators would face consequences.
He referenced the Animal Disease Control Act of 2022, which grants the state the authority to regulate the transportation of animals and animal products to enhance public health and market integrity.
The introduction of the Trade Animal Movement Security and Veterinary Inspection Permit aims to secure trade corridors, track animal health, and promote veterinary compliance across markets, farms, and borders. Governor Bago reported that the state has designated 120,000 hectares for grazing reserves and is collaborating with federal ministries and development partners to improve pasture conditions.
Umar Sanda Rabe, the Commissioner for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, described the consultative meeting as a crucial step toward ensuring animal welfare and enhancing the livestock sector.
He noted the necessity of health examinations for animals prior to slaughter to prevent disease outbreaks.
Alh. Ilyasu Bulama, President of the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors, and Marketers of Nigeria, commended the Governor’s initiatives but highlighted the detrimental impacts of cattle rustling on the industry. He expressed optimism that the new permit system would address these challenges.
Umar Abubakar Lapai, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Niger State, praised the veterinary inspection permit as a significant measure for promoting healthy meat consumption and addressing conflicts between farmers and herders.
In their contributions, representatives from the Butchers Association and cattle breeders expressed their support for the Governor’s efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts in the region, reaffirming their confidence in the administration’s commitment to improving the livestock industry.
