By Abbas Nazil
Jigawa State has created its own Ministry of Livestock Development aimed at fast-tracking economic diversification.
The state governor, Malam Umar Namadi, recently inaugurated the the ministry’s pioneer commissioner, Professor Salim Abdul-Rahman Lawal, citing his expertise and extensive academic background in animal science as the primary reason for his selection.
Namadi emphasized that livestock is the second-largest economic activity in Jigawa after agriculture, stressing that the sector holds enormous untapped potential capable of transforming the state’s economy.
He explained that the decision to create the ministry was a deliberate step to strengthen the livestock sub-sector, which plays a critical role in the livelihoods of many residents.
“We are all aware that livestock, apart from farming, is the second economic activity in Jigawa State. So it’s a huge potential and it’s a very big ministry as far as the government is concerned. We find it very necessary to create a ministry that will oversee the development of livestock in Jigawa State,” the governor said.
Namadi further revealed that the state government had already established valuable connections within the industry and anticipated that these partnerships would soon begin to yield tangible results.
He said the ministry would be the driving force in translating these opportunities into practical benefits for communities, boosting incomes and promoting economic stability across the state.
Speaking on the choice of Professor Salim as the pioneer commissioner, the governor highlighted his qualifications, noting that his academic journey from bachelor’s to master’s to doctorate degrees had been entirely focused on animal science, making him the ideal candidate to lead the sector.
“There’s no better person to spearhead that industry than Professor Salim,” Namadi stated, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver meaningful progress.
He urged the commissioner to embrace the historic responsibility entrusted to him and to ensure that the ministry leaves a lasting positive impact on the people of Jigawa.
“I want to caution you that you are on the verge of making history because you are the pioneer commissioner of this ministry. So if the ministry has an impact on the lives of the people of Jigawa State, history will be very kind to you. Otherwise, it will be a problem for you,” the governor warned.
The governor offered prayers for the success of the new ministry and its role in improving livelihoods and enhancing the state’s economic strength through livestock development.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders in the agricultural and livestock sectors, reflecting the significance of the development for Jigawa State’s future.
