Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has issued a directive to his cabinet to reduce the state’s reliance on the allocation from the federal government and instead focus on transforming the state into a hub for livestock production and meat export.
Speaking after supervising the swearing-in of two new commissioners, Gov. Zulum emphasized the urgent need for economic diversification and revenue generation through strategic investments in livestock, dairy, and aquaculture.
“We must work hard and reduce our dependency on federal allocation,” Gov. Zulum said.
“This is the time for us to start thinking out of the box and create wealth as soon as possible.”
The governor outlined plans to capitalize on the state’s vast agricultural and pastoral resources, urging his team to prioritize high-yield livestock breeding and milk production.
He noted that the market for dairy products is ready and the cost of investment remains relatively low.
“We can make a lot of money in livestock. Let’s procure high-yield breeds and invest in milk production. We’re not taking it lightly anymore,” he added.
Gov. Zulum also disclosed plans to explore the state’s potential in aquaculture and the fishing industry, describing them as untapped sources of revenue that could contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
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With the international wing of the Maiduguri airport now operational, the governor said the state is strategically positioned to begin exporting meat to international markets, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
“We can invest in meat production. With the international wing of our airport operational, we are close to Asian and Arab countries. We don’t need much to start, only commitment and political will,” he said.
To drive this economic shift, Gov. Zulum announced the establishment of a new Ministry of Livestock, which he said will align with the federal government’s agricultural and livestock development agenda.
The newly created ministry will be supervised by the state’s Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur.
“I want to use this opportunity to announce the creation of a new Ministry of Livestock, which should align its mission with that of the federal government,” the governor stated.
Earlier, Gov. Zulum supervised the swearing-in of two new commissioners who have joined the state executive council.
Gov. Zulum expressed confidence in the new commissioners’ abilities and urged them to serve with integrity and commitment to the state’s development agenda.
