The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has advocated the need to strengthen livestock production as a strategic move towards boosting food security and promoting sustainable agricultural development across the nation.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, stated this at the 2025 National Pasture Planting Day held at the Kawu Grazing Reserve in Bwari Area Council, Abuja.
She explained that pasture planting is more than a farming activity, stressing that it serves as a key intervention to ensure the year-round availability of quality feed for livestock, reduce overgrazing and land degradation, and advance the transition to modern, settled livestock systems.
According to the minister, these efforts would not only increase productivity but also help prevent conflicts, foster peaceful coexistence, and protect the environment.
Describing the Kawu Grazing Reserve as a strategic agricultural asset within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mahmoud noted that with enhanced pasture management, improved water infrastructure, and expanded veterinary services, the reserve has the potential to serve as a model for other states nationwide.
This, she said, would enhance milk and meat production, create employment opportunities, and support harmonious relations among rural communities.
The minister commended the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development for leading the initiative and acknowledged the dedication of farmers, herders, and development partners who continue to innovate within the sector.
Mahmoud also reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to supporting pasture development projects that secure the future of Nigeria’s livestock industry.
She described the planting event as a symbol of a shared vision for abundance, peace, and prosperity.
Also speaking, the Minister of Livestock Development Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, noted that the event marks not just planting of seeds in the soil, but the sowing of a vision, the vision of renewed hope agenda for resuscitating great reserves, sustainable livestock development, environmental stewardship, peaceful pastoral practices and economic empowerment of millions of Nigerians who depend on livestock for their livelihoods.