News & Events

Transforming Livestock Sector and Mitigating Conflicts: NAITS Launches in Edo State"

"Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in partnerships with Edo State Government Collaborate to Revolutionize Livestock Management"

Benin City, Edo State, July 13, 2023 – The livestock industry in Nigeria takes a significant stride forward as the Federal Government partners with the Edo State government to unveil the National Animal Identification and Traceable System (NAITS). This groundbreaking initiative is set to reshape the sector and effectively address challenges such as farmer-herder conflicts.

Addressing a gathering of stakeholders in Benin City, Edo State, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Stephen Idehenre, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Peter Osagie, highlighted the intrinsic benefits of animal identification processes. Idehenre emphasized that this initiative aligns seamlessly with Governor Godwin Obaseki's transformative "Making Edo Great Again" (MEGA) program, aimed at elevating the state's national stature. He further underscored the potential of NAITS to counter cattle theft, enhance livestock management practices, and boost productivity, both domestically and on the global stage. By using unique identification marks on cattle, the system enables identification of straying animals, contributing to conflict prevention. 

Dr. Osagie addressing the gathering of stakeholders in Benin City, Edo State.

Dr. Osagie also pointed out the increased interconnectedness of the  modern world, emphasizing that diseases and issues transcend borders. He stressed the urgency of developing a robust livestock sector with precise data for effective planning and enhanced security.

NAITS is not solely a technological advancement; it signifies a united effort to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders. Farmers can anticipate refined livestock management practices, driving increased productivity and economic prosperity. Producers will enjoy amplified market access, empowered by traceability that nurtures consumer confidence in product origin and quality. Regulatory bodies can seamlessly streamline monitoring and enforcement endeavors through NAITS, fostering a more secure and efficient livestock sector.

With the NAITS launch in Benin City, the collaboration between the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Edo State government, and stakeholders marks the dawn of a new era defined by transparency, productivity, and harmonious growth within Nigeria's livestock sector.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2023/07/14/fg-edo-develops-synergy-to-check-farmers-herders-clash

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/07/fg-edo-partner-on-animal-identification-to-check-insecurity-others/