London, UK – The latest session of The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference featured Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, in a wide-ranging discussion on the country’s livestock industry and its economic transformation potential. Despite an initial technical setback, the conference successfully resumed, with the Minister demonstrating patience and commitment to engaging with Nigerians worldwide.

Dr. Maiha used the platform to provide critical insights into the government’s vision for the livestock sector, highlighting its inclusivity and nationwide impact. He emphasised that livestock and husbandry businesses are not exclusive to any particular region but are accessible to all Nigerians. His remarks shed light on the strategic importance of the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, which was created on July 9, 2024, to unlock the sector’s potential and drive national economic growth.

The Minister detailed key achievements of the Ministry, noting that its policies have added ₦33 trillion to the Nigerian economy. Among the Ministry’s initiatives are:

• Modernizing pastoralism through improved grazing reserve infrastructure.
• Revitalizing 13 private abattoirs to enhance operational standards and hygiene.
• Encouraging private-sector-led ranching to promote sustainable livestock farming.

Additionally, Dr. Maiha discussed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Brazil, where he secured a $2 billion investment from the Batista Brothers. The investment is set to:

• Enhance livestock breeding and weight management.
• Increase animal feed production.
• Reduce farmer-herder conflicts by promoting sustainable practices.

He further revealed Nigeria’s heavy dependence on livestock imports, citing ₦800 billion worth of honey and $1.5 billion in dairy products imported in 2022 alone. The Minister encouraged Nigerians to embrace the livestock business, emphasizing that ventures such as honey production require minimal startup capital.

The conference also underscored the growing interest in the livestock sector. Dr. Emeka Okengwu, a participant from Abuja, expressed his excitement after directly engaging with the Minister and receiving an invitation to discuss his proposal further in Abuja.

The event attracted an array of distinguished personalities, including:

• Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria.
• Hon. Femi Odere, Special Adviser to the Senate President.
• Chief Babatunde Ogala, SAN, Senior Legal Counsel to President Tinubu.
• Dr. Isaac Adewole, former Minister of Health.
• Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Trade and Investment.
• H.E. Femi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State.

Both Chief Babatunde Ogala and Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi commended Dr. Maiha for his dedication to restructuring Nigeria’s livestock sector, pledging their continued support for his efforts.

The success of the conference was further amplified through strategic media partnerships, including BEN Television UK, The Reflectors Newspaper Nigeria, and Parrot Reporters Media Limited, South Africa. These platforms have been instrumental in providing global visibility to Nigeria’s developmental initiatives.

The organisers of The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference extended their appreciation to attendees for their patience during the technical delay and for maintaining the momentum of the discussion. Their continued engagement ensures that candid and transparent dialogues between Nigerian leaders and citizens remain a priority.

In closing, the conference emphasized the need for Nigerians to rally behind government reforms, which, despite short-term economic difficulties, are expected to yield long-term national benefits. The organisers urged citizens to embrace the four Ps—Patience, Perseverance, Patriotism, and Prayers—as the country navigates its transformation journey.

With the next high-profile guest set to be announced soon, anticipation is building for another insightful session of this influential global town hall series.