The Cross River State Government has launched a seven-year development roadmap for the livestock sector, targeting a N100 billion economy. According to Liyel Imoukhuede, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Livestock Development, the plan focuses on increasing productivity, improving animal health, and developing infrastructure. The goal is to move livestock production from subsistence activities to a commercially driven industry.
The proposed roadmap will cover various aspects of livestock production, including cattle, dairy, poultry, pigs, sheep, and goats, as well as aquaculture, feed production, processing, cold-chain logistics, and livestock markets. Imoukhuede stated that the immediate phase of the programme involves enumerating farmers, engaging stakeholders, and assessing the state's livestock resources. This phase will also focus on strengthening veterinary services and land and ranching planning.
The medium-term phase of the plan will focus on expanding production, infrastructure, processing capacity, employment opportunities, and access to markets. The government is assessing existing livestock assets and identifying investment opportunities in areas such as cattle, dairy, poultry, feed production, and meat processing. Imoukhuede highlighted that Cross River's agricultural land, strategic location, and existing agricultural assets make it an ideal location for livestock production and export.
The state government is working with the Federal Government and development partners, including the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), to strengthen the sector. The roadmap aligns with the Federal Government's livestock transformation agenda, which prioritizes state-specific investment, private-sector participation, and animal health. The plan aims to increase the contribution of livestock to the Cross River economy and enhance the sector's role alongside agriculture and tourism.
The initiative is expected to create economic opportunities for young people and women by attracting private capital into agriculture. Imoukhuede emphasized that the plan will transform livestock production into a major source of employment, investment, food, and income for residents. The government believes that the livestock sector has the potential to become a significant contributor to the state's economy.
Cross River's strategic location and international border make it an attractive location for livestock production and export. The state is working to position itself as a major livestock production and export hub. The government's efforts to develop the livestock sector are expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy and food security.
The seven-year plan is a comprehensive strategy to develop the livestock sector in Cross River State. The government is committed to implementing the plan, which is expected to have a significant impact on the state's economy and the livelihoods of its residents. The plan's success will depend on effective implementation and collaboration with stakeholders.
Key points
- The Cross River State Government aims to develop a livestock economy worth over N100 billion in seven years.
- The plan focuses on increasing productivity, improving animal health, and developing infrastructure.
- The initiative aligns with the Federal Government's livestock transformation agenda and aims to create economic opportunities for young people and women.
