Federal Govt, Firm Pick Taraba For Livestock Production, Academy

Taraba State is set to deepen its push for investment in the livestock sector, as a renowned dairy company, under the aegis of Pure Dairy Herd has proposed the establishment of a world-class livestock training academy in the state.

The proposal was unveiled during a visit by a high-powered delegation led by the minister of Livestock Development, members of Pure Dairy Herd, among others, to Governor Agbu Kefas, at the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo.

Discussions during the meeting with the international investors centered on forging a partnership to develop an institute of excellence for livestock production and capacity building.

The establishment of the centre is part of ongoing efforts and initiative by the state government, aimed at positioning the state and Nigeria as a whole, as a leader in dairy production.

The leader of the delegation and the minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said Taraba was selected due to its vast agricultural potential, particularly the Mambilla Plateau, which is reputed for its large cattle population and vast fertile land.

The minister noted that the proposed academy is designed to bridge the gap in formal livestock education, as most farmers still rely on traditional methods that limit productivity.

According to him, modern livestock and dairy production require structured training, scientific knowledge, and technical expertise to ensure sustainability and to attract investment.

“There is currently no dedicated institution where people can learn livestock business in a structured manner. Livestock farming has gone beyond subsistence and now requires practical skills and scientific knowledge,” he said.

He added that the academy would integrate classroom learning with practical training through an attached farm, covering key areas such as feed production, disease control, breeding, milking, and hygienic handling.

An international diary expert, Gavel Don, disclosed that the visit marks the first phase of engagement, with a technical team expected to conduct site assessments for the project.

Don, however, delivered a paper outlining practical strategies through which dairy production can significantly boost revenue for both the state and the country.

“If realised, the academy is expected to position Taraba as a hub for livestock education and agribusiness in order to boost skills development and to attract more investment into the sector.”

Governor Agbu Kefas, while receiving the delegation, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to attracting investors into the livestock sector.

He described Taraba as a natural hub with the capacity to meet national demand if properly harnessed.

Governor Kefas linked the renewed interest in livestock development to President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, which included the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.

He underscores the federal government’s resolve to reposition the sector.

He commended the investors for coming with technical partners, noting that it reflects seriousness of purpose and readiness to invest in the state.

The governor assured the delegation of a peaceful and secure environment, saying that the relative calm in the state is credited to the efforts of security agencies.

While acknowledging pockets of security challenges, he said such threats are being contained and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies.

Governor Kefas reiterated the state government’s readiness to collaborate with investors and expressed optimism that such partnerships would unlock economic opportunities and position Taraba as a leading livestock hub in Nigeria.