The Minister of Livestock Development, Mukhtar Maiha, has warned Nigerians against the consumption of hides and skin (ponmo), highlighting health risks linked to the practice. He emphasized that there are documented health concerns related to eating this animal product.
Maiha further announced plans to establish standardized abattoirs nationwide, ensuring every part of the animal is used for human consumption and other developmental purposes. He stressed that “in the animal kingdom, there is no waste.”
The minister also shared that a significant portion of the Ministry’s 2025 fiscal year capital expenditure will focus on improving livestock infrastructure, including modern farms and ranches. Other priorities will include veterinary clinics, processing facilities, grazing reserves, and disease control programs.
“It will also fund key projects aimed at increasing productivity and creating a more structured livestock industry,” he added. As part of the Development of Nigeria Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy 2025-2030 (NLGAS 25), he projected the livestock sector’s GDP contribution to rise from $32 billion to $74 billion by 2035, positioning Nigeria as a key global player in animal protein production, alongside countries like Brazil, Argentina, and the United States.
Through ten strategic pillars, including Livestock Value Chain Development, Animal Health and Zoonoses Control, Feed & Fodder, Water Resources Management, as well as Finance and Insurance, the ministry aims to enhance production, improve animal health, ensure food security, foster inclusivity, and strengthen sector governance.
