Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Ajimobi, has urged Nigerians to uphold the values of sacrifice, compassion, and national unity as Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Adha, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising livestock farming and strengthening food security.
Ajimobi made the remarks in Ibadan during an interactive session with journalists held as part of the Sallah celebrations.
According to him, Eid al-Adha, which commemorates the obedience and faith of Prophet Ibrahim, offers an opportunity for Nigerians to support one another, show kindness to the less privileged, and promote peaceful coexistence despite the country’s economic and social challenges.
“This sacred celebration is not only a period for worship and thanksgiving, but also a moment to reflect on unity, peace, and service to humanity,” he said. “We must continue to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and national unity, regardless of tribe, religion, or background.”
Speaking on reforms in the livestock sector, Ajimobi disclosed that his office, in partnership with the Ministry of Livestock Development, has commenced the revival of grazing reserves and ranches across the country to address farmer-herder conflicts and encourage modern ranching practices.
He revealed that rehabilitation work has already begun at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Abuja, while a nationwide audit of ranches and the country’s 417 grazing reserves is ongoing to determine facilities that can be upgraded before new ones are established.
Ajimobi stressed that modernising livestock farming goes beyond training farmers alone.
“It’s not just about teaching farmers modern ways of farming. If we teach without providing the necessary infrastructure, we are wasting our time. Our intention is to revive the reserves we have, modernise them, and use them as a platform to begin the ranching system the government wants,” he explained.
He noted that the large size of many grazing reserves has made the process more challenging than anticipated, citing the Kawu reserve, which spans over 10,000 hectares.
The presidential aide added that the Federal Government is engaging private sector investors and international development partners to support the revitalisation programme.
Ajimobi also reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to achieving food security through the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development.
According to him, the President has set a nutritional target aimed at ensuring that every Nigerian child can access at least a sachet of milk and one egg daily.
Addressing insecurity in forests and farmlands, Ajimobi said combating banditry and kidnapping requires collective efforts from both government and communities.
He argued that poverty and local complicity often aid criminal activities, adding that modern livestock production and community-based ranger initiatives would complement the efforts of security agencies.
“Government has a role to play, but also the communities have a role to play. We are confident that together we can address these challenges,” he said.
On investment inflows into the livestock sector, Ajimobi highlighted recent agreements facilitated by President Tinubu, including a $1.5 billion investment deal with JBS, the world’s largest beef processor, a livestock cooperation agreement with France, and a £100 million dairy production and processing pact signed during the President’s recent visit to the United Kingdom.
He further disclosed that Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in importing Nigerian bovine red meat, with discussions already underway to commence exports.
Commenting on internal disagreements within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of future elections, Ajimobi maintained that the ruling party remains united under President Tinubu’s leadership.
He acknowledged that party primaries often generate grievances but urged aggrieved members to prioritise the collective interest of the party and the nation above personal ambition.
“Allah has plans for everybody. We may become unhappy when things do not go our way, but members and leaders of the APC will put their ambitions aside for the greater good,” he said.
Ajimobi concluded by praying for peace, prosperity, and wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders, while wishing Muslims a peaceful Eid celebration.
“Eid Mubarak, and may Allah make it easy for all of us,” he added.