FG embarks on ranching, sign MOU with a market outlet, farm

·         Says will support every other stakeholders

 

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expedite action with a private market outlet and an incorporated farm towards better animal productivity as President Mohammed Buhari has approved the RUGA model of facilities provision for herdsmen to mitigate incessant clashes with farmers through ranching.

Signing the MOU yesterday at the ministry conference room, the Minister of agriculture, Chief Audu said that FG apart from the Fulani herdsmen would be ready to give support to any other persons that are willing to go into animal productivity in a modern way saying President Mohammudu Buhari has approved the implementation of RUGA settlement model targeted to renew grazing reserves and building of 40 units of huts for 10 pastoral families on minimum of 20 hectare along with other facilities to ensure ranching culture.

The two companies told the minister their readiness to assist in the boosting of animal productivity along all the value chains using improved method of animal production and marketing without necessarily moving cattle and other animals about in search of pastures. They both solicited for the government support in their activities by signing a MOU to consolidate the relationship into action.

Chairman/CEO, Kiyasa Farm Limited, Alhaji Mohammed Samba Bashai said that his farm with genetically improved animal varieties for the people of Sokoto wanted the Federal government to take advantage of the farm facility to execute its programme in the state while Ambassador Abubakar Cika, representing Cikasoro Livestock Market, along Zuba, Abuja was asking for government recognition and support that could generate over 3,000 employment towards ensuring an effective market for animal productions in Nigeria and outside the country.

However, Chief Ogbeh  promised them support in area of  free security service that would be provided by the rangers, asked them to put up a request that would be looked into saying that the RUGA model is not meant alone for the Fulanis, but also for people who wanted to invest in animal productivity with ranching promotion and adoption.