Dr. Ibrahim Sani Kaita, an administrative secretary at the Institute of Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has commended the Katsina State government for its recent animal rearing initiative, describing it as a transformative step toward economic growth and development.
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Speaking in a statement, Dr. Kaita lauded the project launched by Governor Dikko Umar Radda, which focuses on distributing goats to less privileged individuals, aiming to promote self-sufficiency and financial stability among vulnerable groups.
Dr. Kaita, a development expert and university administrator, emphasized the significance of the program in tackling poverty and unemployment. “This initiative will create job opportunities for women and youth while addressing social issues that have long affected our communities,” he stated.
He highlighted that livestock farming is a proven driver of economic progress. Drawing parallels with India, where the livestock sector contributed significantly to economic growth between 2014 and 2021, he expressed confidence that a similar impact could be achieved in Katsina State.
Beyond economic benefits, Dr. Kaita pointed out that animal rearing supports biodiversity, sustains ecosystems, and enhances food security, particularly in rural areas. However, he cautioned that challenges such as animal diseases, feed scarcity, and inadequate policy support must be addressed for the project to succeed.
He advised the government to adopt strategic planning, effective implementation, and strong stakeholder engagement to ensure long-term success. According to him, the global market, especially in Africa and the Middle East, presents vast opportunities for livestock farming, making it a viable economic venture for the state.
Commending the government’s vision, he described the initiative as a crucial step toward economic prosperity. “By embracing animal rearing, Katsina State is unlocking the potential of this vital sector, paving the way for a better future for its people,” he concluded.
