The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged the governments of the 19 Northern States to acquire and distribute livestock feed as a form of palliative aid to pastoralists.
This appeal comes following the Federal Government’s allocation of N50 billion for the Pulaaku initiative, endorsed by President Bola Tinubu, aimed at strengthening the livestock sector and improving conditions for Nigerian pastoralists.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Khalil Bello, the National President of KACRAN, highlighted the significance of the reappointment of members to the North East Development Commission (NEEC) Management Board.
This move reflects the ongoing commitment to reconstruct the region affected by Boko Haram, ensuring sustained support services for impacted communities.
He said: “As the primary beneficiaries of government initiatives aimed at advancing livestock development, KACRAN implores the Northern State Governments to participate actively by acquiring and distributing critical animal feed to pastoralists within their jurisdictions.”
He noted that: “The rationale for this appeal is rooted in several vital points which are: President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting the livestock sector, intending to improve security in the Northern regions and alleviate the hardships of our citizens.
*The strategic reappointment of NEDC members illustrates the Federal Government’s intent to enhance herding practices and benefit the Nigerian populace comprehensively; With the NLC’s primary focus on workers’ rights, KACRAN underscores the necessity to speak up for the silent livestock population, which is integral to our national interest.
“Livestock, lacking the ability to communicate distress, require our stewardship to ensure their needs are met and considered by government policies.
“The repercussions of oil subsidy removal have been pronounced for livestock, arguably surpassing the impact on human populations; The health and upkeep of livestock are inextricably linked to the welfare of humans, emphasizing the importance of holistic palliative measures.
“The scarcity of animal feed, a byproduct of human food processing, is exacerbated by current culinary practices aimed at minimizing waste. Livestock are entitled to rights and privileges, paralleling those of humans, and should be included in welfare considerations.
“Drawing parallels with developed nations, where livestock welfare is supported through governmental aid, KACRAN advocates for similar provisions in Nigeria; Preventing a decline in the national livestock population necessitates inclusive palliative actions by all government tiers, particularly in the Northern region, a key livestock stronghold.”
