By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revolutionizing the livestock sector to boost the nation’s economic growth, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
This assurance was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, during the 2024 Blueprint Impact Series and Awards Ceremony, held on Monday July 21, 2025, in Abuja.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, highlighted the significance that President Tinubu attributed to the livestock industry, noting that if its vast potentials are effectively utilized, it could serve as the foundation of Nigeria’s economic development. He assured of government’s commitment to revolutionize the sector through investment and critical infrastructure development.
“This theme resonates with the focus and direction of government in the livestock sector, which holds invaluable potential for boosting our industrial growth, foreign trade and resolution of some of the most avoidable challenges facing our society as a whole. The establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development underscores the importance the President attaches to unlocking the vast potentials in this sector… This government is assured that through ongoing strategic investment, infrastructure development, value chain enhancement, and regional trade facilitation, livestock shall become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation, especially in rural communities.”
Having thanked Blueprint Newspaper Limited for raising the bar in promoting national unity, inclusive growth and accountable governance in its reportage, he assured President Tinubu’s readiness to work with Blueprint Newspaper and other credible media organisations to promote solutions, innovations, and recognize success stories that can inspire progress across all sectors.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha stated that the livestock industry has the potential to significantly boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) if effective reforms are implemented to tackle the challenges facing the sector and ensure its products comply with international export standards.
He also sought collaboration with the private sector, researchers, and media to support the maiden Ministry towards the realization of its statutory mandate.
In his welcome address, Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar stated that since the launch of newspapers in 2011, it has flourished significantly, managing to withstand the pressures of media competition and secure its place as one of the most sought-after newspapers in the country.
He added that due to its innovation, the newspapers that began as a weekend publication has evolved into a daily newspaper, a weekend edition, and also feature Manhaja Blueprint version tailored for Hausa-speaking Nigerians.
