The National Assembly Joint Committee on Livestock Development has criticised the ₦11.8 billion allocated to the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, calling it inadequate for its effective take-off.
The 2025 budget earmarked ₦10 billion for capital projects and ₦1.8 billion for overhead costs.
Minister Idi Maiha, during the budget defence on Tuesday, highlighted operational challenges, including the lack of office space, equipment, and facilities.
The ministry, created three months ago from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is temporarily operating from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Maiha assured that the funds would support foundational activities, focusing on climate change mitigation, economic growth in livestock, and youth and women engagement.
He also announced plans for nationwide sensitisation and equitable distribution of capital projects.
The committee urged Maiha to submit a supplementary budget reflecting the ministry’s actual needs.
House Committee Chairman Wale Raji and Senate Committee Chairman Musa Mustapha pledged support but demanded faster progress and regular updates.
