The Delta government has inaugurated the first batch of 45-man livestock management operatives in line with the provision of the law to regulate open grazing.

 Godfrey Enita, chairman of the livestock management committee and commissioner for agriculture and natural resources, inaugurated the operatives at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) headquarters in Asaba on Thursday.

Mr Enita, in his address, recalled that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa had, on Tuesday, inaugurated the committee.

“The law is basically enacted to, among others, stop open grazing of livestock, encourage sustainable, humane breeding, production and husbandry and marketing of livestock. It is to prevent herders and farmers crisis with its attendant loss of lives and investments, which is a threat to the state’s drive for food security and to enhance safety and harmonious living among herders and farmers in the state,” the commissioner explained.

He added, “It is with great joy and an auspicious occasion of passing out parade and inauguration of the first batch of 45-man state livestock management operatives.”

Mr Enita said the committee had created the needed awareness of the demands of the law to critical stakeholders, including the Arewa community, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Cattle Dealers, and resident Fulani herders, among others.

(NAN)