NEC budgets N100bn for national livestock programme

The National Economic Council (NEC) has budgeted N100 billion for the implementation of the national livestock transformation plan (NLTP).

The council presided over by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo reviewed the proposal submitted by one of its subcommittees at its Thursday meeting in the presidential villa

Dave Umayi, Ebonyi state governor and chairman of the subcommittee on farmer/herder crisis, said the proposal indicates that the federal government would contribute 80% of the funds, while states would provide the remaining 20% and the land to be used.

He said the programme is voluntary for states willing to participate.

The governor also explained that the livestock programme is not only about cows, so states are free to use any animal they like to implement the livestock plan.

Umahi stated that the programme comprises of education and care for people displaced by farmers/herders’ crisis.

According to the governor, the council has not fixed a takeoff date for the programme.

Osinbajo had earlier launched the livestock programme in Adamawa state, saying the plan was to address the farmer-herder crisis in the country.

Laolu Akande, Osinbajo’s media aide, had said the launch of the NLTP should not be confused with RUGA, a plan which was suspended by the federal government following public outcry.