The Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association’s Kogi State chapter has advocated the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development in the state.

At a news conference in Lokoja, state NVMA Chairman, Tolu Omotugba, urged the state government to establish a livestock ministry akin to the one established at the federal level by President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Omotugba also urged the state governor Ahmed Ododo to consider appointing a credible veterinarian as the ministry’s commissioner when created.

The chairman said the veterinarians, as key stakeholders in the livestock industry, would be of great help, considering the growing population of livestock in Kogi.

“We seize this opportunity to call on Mr Ododo to leverage the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development by President Tinubu-led administration. We advocate the establishment of a similar ministry in Kogi State and the appointment of a credible veterinarian as its commissioner,” Mr Omotugba said.

He also commended the government for the approval and prompt implementation of the 2021 Revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure for their members within the Kogl State Civil Service.

“Following the resolutions reached at our recently concluded executive meeting, we wish to address several important matters. We extend our profound gratitude to Governor Ododo for his approval and prompt implementation of the 2021 Revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure for our members within the Kogi State Civil Service.

“This gesture underscores the governor’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Kogi workers and his recognition of the pivotal role the veterinary profession plays in the state’s economic prosperity. The approval and implementation have motivated our members to carry out our duties with renewed enthusiasm and the highest level of dedication,” he said.

Mr Omotugba, however, appealed to the governor to ensure prompt payment of the accumulated arrears of two months since the salary structure’s implementation in January 2021.

The chairman, who also commended the governor for “the exemplary work in Kogi,” urged him to continue the good work.

(NAN)