…commends blueprint newspaper for advancing National cohesion, inclusive development, and transparent governance
By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector into a catalyst for industrial development, rural prosperity, and foreign trade expansion in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, made the pledge on behalf of the Federal Government while delivering remarks at the 2024 Blueprint Impact Series and Awards Ceremony, held in Abuja with the theme “Exploring the Potentials of Livestock Exports in Nigeria.”
In a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the SGF described the livestock industry as a sector of immense potential, capable of significantly advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic development if effectively harnessed.
“This theme resonates with the focus and direction of government in the livestock sector, which holds invaluable potential for boosting our industrial growth, foreign trade and resolution of some of the most avoidable challenges facing our society as a whole,” Akume said.
He noted that the recent establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by President Tinubu was a deliberate and strategic move aimed at unlocking the sector’s economic and social opportunities, especially for rural communities. “This government is assured that through ongoing strategic investment, infrastructure development, value chain enhancement, and regional trade facilitation, livestock shall become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation,” he added.
Senator Akume also praised Blueprint Newspapers Limited for its contribution to national unity, inclusive development, and good governance, commending its role in promoting public discourse around innovation and solution-oriented journalism. He assured the readiness of President Tinubu to partner with Blueprint and other credible media platforms to amplify narratives that inspire national progress across various sectors.
Delivering a goodwill message at the ceremony, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the livestock industry as a vital segment of the Nigerian economy with the potential to drive significant GDP growth. He stressed the need for effective reforms and strategic investments to overcome structural challenges and enhance the international competitiveness of Nigeria’s livestock products.
“The livestock sector can thrive if we implement proper reforms and ensure that our products meet international export standards,” he said, calling for collaboration with private investors, researchers, and media organisations to support the ministry in fulfilling its mandate.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Managing Director of Blueprint Newspapers Limited, Salisu Umar, reflected on the media organisation’s journey since its inception in 2011. He noted that Blueprint had grown remarkably from a weekend publication into a robust multimedia platform offering daily editions, weekend features, and the Manhaja Blueprint tailored for Hausa-speaking audiences.
Umar described the award ceremony as a continuation of Blueprint’s dedication to excellence in journalism, national development, and innovation, stating that the organisation remains committed to spotlighting initiatives that promote accountability, economic growth, and inclusive governance.
The event brought together key stakeholders from government, media, business, and civil society, all united by a shared goal of unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry as a driver of national development.
