The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), a World Bank-assisted initiative to modernize livestock production through a landmark compartmentalization and zoning strategy has been launched in Taraba State.
National Project Coordinator, Mallam Sanusi Abubakar, led a team to Sardauna Local Government Area of the state to discuss the strategy’s implementation.
Mallam Abubakar highlighted selection of the Sardauna Local Government Area as a pilot area due to its favourable climatic conditions, livestock population and management practices.
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“The strategy will strengthen innovation, institutional systems and conflict mitigation while positioning Sardauna for international livestock trade,” he said.
Abubakar also revealed that export requests for Nigerian beef had been received from five countries, adding that “we are here to map out opportunities, link investors, and ensure Sardauna becomes a model for livestock production and disease control.”
Dr. Maimuna Habib, the lead consultant on the project, emphasized the goal of establishing Sardauna as a livestock disease-free zone.
“Every ranch will be treated as a compartment and all livestock will be vaccinated and treated free of charge for two years upon registration,” she explained.
The project will also provide incentives such as modern abattoirs, veterinary hospitals and access to vaccines and drugs
Dr. Mustapha Mohammed, an Animal Health Specialist, elaborated on the benefits of compartmentalization, saying “this initiative will address trans-boundary animal diseases, which currently limit Nigeria’s livestock trade.
“By creating a disease-free zone, Sardauna can meet international trade standards and attract investments.”
Chairman of Sardauna Local Government, Mohammed Umar, expressed strong support for the initiative, pledging to ensure full participation by ranch owners.
Similarly, the Wakili of Fulani Mambilla, Ardo Bawa, representing livestock stakeholders, promised to mobilize farmers and address any concerns about the project.
The L-PRES team also conducted field visits to ranches on the Mambilla Plateau, assessing their readiness for the program and gathering GPS data.
The initiative, aimed at modernizing livestock farming, boosting the local economy and expanding international trade opportunities, has been met with enthusiasm by stakeholders.
Ranch owners and livestock farmers, who spoke with our correspondent, expressed satisfaction with the strategy and pledged to support its implementation.
