The Nigeria Professionals in Diaspora (NPID) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to review his proposal for establishing a new Ministry of Livestock, citing concerns over potential resource wastage and the importance of optimizing current governmental frameworks.
During a press conference held in Abuja, Dr. Johnson David, President of NPID, acknowledged President Tinubu’s accomplishments since taking office, particularly in combating corruption and implementing economic reforms.
Dr. David voiced apprehensions that introducing a new ministry could unnecessarily expand the governmental apparatus and escalate governance expenses.
“We believe the existing structures within the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development could be strengthened and optimised to address the needs of the livestock industry without the added cost and bureaucracy of a new ministry,” Dr David said.
Mr Ikechukwu Obinna, a senior NPID member, added that the resources required to establish and maintain a standalone Ministry of Livestock could be better utilised to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the existing agricultural frameworks.
He said, “Our analysis suggests that the resources required to establish and maintain a standalone Ministry of Livestock could be better utilised to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the existing agricultural frameworks
This would allow for a more streamlined and cost-effective approach to supporting the livestock sector’s development.”
The NPID urged President Tinubu to carefully consider the long-term implications of creating a new ministry and to instead focus on optimising the existing institutional structures to address the challenges faced by livestock farmers and stakeholders.
The organisation pledged its continued support and cooperation in realising the president’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable Nigeria.
The NPID highlighted President Tinubu’s swift and decisive actions to address the country’s most pressing challenges, particularly in the areas of economic reform, infrastructure development, and the fight against corruption.
NPID said, “Since assuming office, President Tinubu has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s economy and laying the foundation for sustainable growth.”
“His bold policy decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, have been instrumental in stabilising the country’s fiscal position and paving the way for long-term economic prosperity.”
The organisation also commended the President’s focus on infrastructure development, which has been a crucial driver of economic transformation.
The NPID praised what it describes as the accelerated construction of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects across the country, which have improved connectivity, facilitated the movement of goods and services, and created numerous job opportunities for Nigerians.
