The Federal Government will clear 500 hectares of land in Benue State to promote ranching and dairy production, according to the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha.
During his visit to the Benue Livestock Investigation and Breeding Centre in Raav, Gwer East Local Government Area, Maiha stated that while the centre has 2,400 hectares allocated for livestock development, the initial focus will be on 500 hectares to ensure pasture is ready before the rains.
“We will form a small committee to suggest ways of moving this place forward. We aim to establish two enterprises here: one for dairy, the other for ranching,” Maiha said.
The minister expressed concern that despite the centre’s vast land, it currently houses only 37 animals, with its facilities in a state of disrepair. He emphasized the need for full rehabilitation, including the construction of pens, isolation centres, maternity pens, dips, housing, and chalets.
Additionally, the centre will collaborate with Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, for research purposes.
Director-General of the Benue Bureau for Livestock Development, Aondoakaa Asambe, welcomed the initiative, stating that it aligns with the state government’s vision for the sector.
“The state government believes ranching will help address security challenges and enable farmers to return to their ancestral lands,” Asambe noted.
He praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for supporting efforts to build a strong livestock industry that benefits the state economically.
As part of his visit, the minister also toured the Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project in Yadev, Gboko LGA, and the International Cattle Market in Makurdi.
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