Anastasia Okechukwu Reporting
The Delta State Government on Thursday inaugurated the first batch of 45-man Livestock Management Operatives.
This is in line with the provision of its law to regulate open grazing in the state.
The Chairman, State Livestock Management Committee and Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Godfrey Enita, did the inauguration at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps State Command Headquarters in Asaba.
In his speech, Enita recalled that the State Livestock Management Committee (DLMC) had been officially inaugurated on Tuesday by the state government, which was led by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
He explained that the committee was established with the intention of implementing the state livestock, breeding, rearing and marketing regulations Law, 2012 in the state’s best interests.
He said: “The law is basically enacted to among others stop open grazing of livestock, encourage sustainable humane breeding, production and husbandry and marketing of livestock.
“It is to prevent herders and farmers crisis with its attendant loss of lives and investments, which is a threat to the state’s drive for food security and to enhance safety and harmonious living among herders and farmers in the state.
“It is with great joy and an auspicious occasion of passing out parade and inauguration of the first batch of 45-man state livestock management operatives.”
Enita stated that the DLMO had completed a basic course for operatives and that their relevant Local Government Area Special Taskforce would be directly in charge of them.
He also stated that their primary responsibilities were observation and informing the LGA Special Taskforce and local security organizations of any dangers posed by farming and herding-related issues.
The DLMC chairman further said that the committee has already raised necessary awareness among important stakeholders which includes: Arewa community, Myetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Cattle Dealers and resident Fulani herders, about the requirements of the statute.
“While thanking the governor for providing the logistics for the training of the DLMO, I implore all stakeholders to cooperate and support the operatives in the course of their duties,” Enita said.