The Joint Committee on Livestock Development of the Senate and House of Representatives has turned down the proposed N11.8 billion 2025 budget allocated for the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development. This decision was announced during a budget review session where the committee raised concerns about the allocation’s sufficiency and the ministry’s readiness for effective operations.
The proposed budget consisted of N10 billion for capital projects and N1.8 billion for overhead costs. Despite the ministry’s recent launch three months ago, lawmakers believe that the funds allocated are either poorly planned or inadequate to meet the needs of a new ministry.
Senator Musa Mustapha, chairman of the committee, emphasized the need for a thorough review of the budget. He acknowledged the challenges that come with setting up a new ministry and assured that the committee would re-evaluate the figures to ensure they meet the requirements for a proper take-off.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, appeared before the joint committee alongside other officials from the ministry. During the session, he outlined the difficulties the ministry faces, including the lack of essential infrastructure and resources.
He said: “The take off process is ongoing with necessary structures being put together from formative departments from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
“We are yet to have office accommodation,” he said.
Wale Raji, Chairman House Committee on Livestock Development, queried the amount of input from the Presidential Implementation Committee for the take – off of the ministry.
“There will be need for you to make special presentation on this or come up with supplementary budget that will reflect the hope of Nigerians.
“The budget is abysmally low to respond to the yearnings of Nigerians,” he said.
