Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Livestock Development has launched a comprehensive initiative to overhaul the nation’s struggling livestock sector. Central to this effort is a parliamentary probe into the Federal Government’s failure to disburse ₦498.7 million in compensation to 307 verified poultry farmers. These farmers suffered significant losses from devastating bird flu outbreaks between 2021 and 2023, prompting urgent calls for accountability and reform.

Hon. Wale Raji, Chairman of the Committee, announced the dual-pronged approach during a public hearing in Abuja, emphasizing the gravity of the outstanding payments. He stated that the committee is determined to ensure transparency and accountability in the compensation process, which has left hundreds of farmers in dire financial straits. The hearing brought together various stakeholders to contribute ideas aimed at strengthening livestock development and addressing systemic challenges.

Dr. Adeniyi Adedoyin, Director of Veterinary Services, representing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, confirmed the unpaid sum. He disclosed that while ₦3.16 billion had previously been disbursed to 1,055 farmers affected by earlier outbreaks, the most recent phase of payments was stalled due to severe funding shortfalls. Dr. Adedoyin also highlighted a recent outbreak in Taraba State, which led to the culling of over 2,000 birds, with their compensation still pending.

The delay is primarily attributed to inadequate budgetary provisions and the glaring absence of a dedicated Animal Diseases Contingency or Emergency Fund (ADEF) since 2021. Furthermore, Dr. Adedoyin noted that a significant number of affected farmers lack the mandatory insurance coverage, as required by law, which further complicates the already convoluted compensation framework. In 2022, the Federal Executive Council approved a revised compensation formula, stipulating contributions from the federal government, states, and farmers, while restricting eligibility to smallholders with fewer than 3,000 birds.

Beyond the compensation crisis, the committee is championing a robust legislative agenda, with six livestock-related bills under consideration. These proposed laws aim to establish essential livestock colleges and research institutes across Nigeria, fostering advancements in animal production, veterinary education, and professional training. This legislative push aligns directly with the broader objectives of the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), seeking to modernize animal husbandry and enhance productivity.

Hon. Raji underscored the committee’s vision to build a vibrant and sustainable livestock sector, positioning it as a key contributor to national food security, employment generation, and economic diversification. He affirmed the commitment to ensuring farmers receive their due compensation and advocating for the creation of an emergency response fund to prevent future payment delays. The committee pledged to pursue the full implementation of the hearing’s recommendations, thereby strengthening policy, research, and training within the industry.

Among the specific legislative proposals is a bill sponsored by Hon. Bello Ka’oje, seeking to establish the Federal College of Animal Husbandry in Ka’oje, Kebbi State. This institution is envisioned as a vital hub for research, innovation, and training, designed to improve animal breeding practices and promote best-in-class livestock care. Ka’oje emphasized that such initiatives are crucial for advancing livestock development, bolstering food security, and creating jobs across the value chain.

Nigeria, despite its extensive agricultural resources, continues to lag significantly in global livestock production. As of 2022, the nation ranked 94th in global milk production and 33rd in meat production, trailing behind African counterparts like Egypt, Kenya, and Ethiopia. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for the comprehensive reforms and institutional strengthening being pursued by the House Committee to unlock the sector’s immense potential.

Hon. Raji reiterated the House’s unwavering commitment to transparency and effective oversight in all aspects of livestock management. He assured stakeholders that government policies and programmes would be designed to benefit everyone across the livestock value chain. The ultimate objective remains to reposition the livestock industry as a pivotal driver of national growth, rural development, and overall economic stability for Nigeria.

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Keywords: Nigeria livestock sector, poultry farmer compensation, bird flu outbreaks, livestock development, National Livestock Transformation Plan, Animal Diseases Contingency Fund, agricultural reform Nigeria, House of Representatives livestock