In a significant move aimed at driving sustainable development in Nigeria’s livestock sector, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Prof Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as Special Adviser and Coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform. The announcement was made on Friday night by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Onanuga stated that President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Jega reflects his commitment to achieving meaningful progress in the livestock sector and strengthening national development efforts. “President Tinubu announced the appointment, hoping to drive meaningful progress in the livestock sector and further strengthen national development efforts,” Onanuga said in a statement.
Prof Jega’s Background and Expertise
Prof. Attahiru Jega, a renowned academic and administrator, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. The 68-year-old former Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, co-chaired the Presidential Livestock Committee alongside President Tinubu. The committee, which delivered comprehensive recommendations for sustainable livestock reforms, proposed the creation of a Livestock Ministry, a recommendation that has since been implemented with the appointment of a minister.
Jega’s tenure as INEC chairman between 2010 and 2015 was marked by significant electoral reforms that enhanced the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process. His leadership during the 2015 general elections, which saw the peaceful transition of power from one political party to another, earned him widespread acclaim.
In addition to his role as Special Adviser, Jega is a member of the International Elections Advisory Council and serves as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano State. His extensive experience in governance, academia, and public service positions him as a key figure in driving the Tinubu administration’s livestock reform agenda.
Reinforcing the Gains of the Presidential Livestock Committee
The appointment of Prof Jega is expected to reinforce the gains achieved by the Presidential Livestock Committee and ensure the continued momentum of reforms already in motion. Onanuga emphasized that Jega’s expertise and leadership will be instrumental in implementing the committee’s recommendations, which aim to address critical challenges in the livestock sector, including conflicts between herders and farmers, inadequate infrastructure, and low productivity.
“His appointment as Special Adviser to President Tinubu will reinforce the gains of the presidential committee and ensure the continued momentum of the reforms already in motion,” Onanuga stated.
The Need for Livestock Reforms in Nigeria
Nigeria’s livestock sector plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment, and rural development. However, the sector has faced numerous challenges, including frequent clashes between herders and farmers, limited access to modern technology, and inadequate funding. These issues have hindered the sector’s growth and potential to contribute more substantially to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The recommendations of the Presidential Livestock Committee, which Jega co-chaired, provide a roadmap for addressing these challenges. Key proposals include the establishment of grazing reserves, the promotion of ranching, and the introduction of modern livestock management practices. The creation of the Livestock Ministry is a significant step toward implementing these reforms and ensuring coordinated efforts across relevant government agencies.
A New Chapter for Nigeria’s Livestock Sector
Prof. Jega’s appointment signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s efforts to transform its livestock sector. His leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the sector. By leveraging his experience in governance and public administration, Jega is well-positioned to drive the Tinubu administration’s vision of a modern, productive, and sustainable livestock sector.
The reforms spearheaded by Jega are expected to have far-reaching impacts, including reducing conflicts between herders and farmers, improving the livelihoods of pastoral communities, and enhancing the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Looking Ahead
As Prof. Attahiru Jega assumes his new role, stakeholders in the livestock sector and the broader Nigerian public will be watching closely to see how his leadership translates into tangible outcomes. The success of the livestock reform agenda will depend on effective implementation, adequate funding, and the collaboration of all relevant stakeholders, including state governments, private sector players, and international development partners.
President Tinubu’s decision to appoint a figure of Jega’s caliber underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing critical issues in the livestock sector and driving sustainable development. With Jega at the helm of the reform efforts, there is renewed hope for a brighter future for Nigeria’s livestock sector and the millions of Nigerians who depend on it for their livelihoods.
In conclusion, the appointment of Prof Attahiru Jega as Special Adviser and Coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform is a strategic move that reflects the Tinubu administration’s determination to tackle the challenges facing the livestock sector. By building on the recommendations of the Presidential Livestock Committee and leveraging Jega’s expertise, the administration aims to create a more productive, sustainable, and conflict-free livestock sector that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s national development.
