The Indonesian government has expressed a strong commitment to partnering with Kebbi State to boost agricultural growth and modern livestock production.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Animal Health, Husbandry, and Fisheries, Alhaji Kabir Usman Alaramma, during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi on Friday.
“This partnership is one of the key outcomes of Governor Nasir Idris’ recent visit to Indonesia, which focused on advancing agriculture and livestock sectors in Kebbi State,” Alaramma stated.
He highlighted that Kebbi, as Nigeria’s second-largest producer of livestock, has immense potential, which the administration of Governor Nasir Idris is determined to fully harness.
“This aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and supports the objectives of the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development,” he added.
The commissioner further explained that the state’s Ministry of Animal Health was established to drive progress in livestock production, animal health, and fisheries.
“The Governor’s visit to Indonesia underscored his administration’s dedication to fostering collaboration, attracting investments, and introducing innovations to enhance economic prosperity and ensure food security in Kebbi State,” he noted.
As part of the partnership, Indonesia has allocated four training slots for Nigerian veterinary doctors in artificial insemination, with Kebbi securing two slots. Two veterinary doctors from the state will undergo one month of specialized training.
Additionally, Indonesia has pledged 1,000 straws of semen for improved cattle breeds, with Kebbi receiving 500. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the production of high-quality beef and milk in the state.
An Indonesian delegation, led by the ambassador and a nine-member technical team, is also scheduled to visit Kebbi to conduct demonstrations on artificial insemination techniques for livestock farmers.
During the visit to Jakarta, Kebbi State officials toured an Embryo Transfer Centre, which agreed to train one veterinary doctor from the state in advanced techniques.
Alaramma expressed gratitude to Governor Idris for his unwavering support of the Ministry, including sponsorships to international conferences in Cote D’Ivoire and Brazil focused on animal husbandry and conflict resolution.
He also praised the Governor for reviving the abandoned Veterinary Hospital in Birnin Kebbi, which is set to become the second-largest of its kind in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed-BK, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, called on the general public to support Governor Idris’ vision for a prosperous and transformed Kebbi State.
He urged the opposition to engage in constructive criticism to avoid distracting the government from its developmental agenda.
