THE Federal Government has trained 200 sheep and goat farmers on improved production practices, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster livestock productivity, strengthen national food security, and create sustainable livelihoods for small-scale farmers.

The farmers drawn from three Local Government Areas (LGAs), of Kano State underwent a three-day capacity training organised by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.

The beneficiaries from Fagge, Tarauni, and Gwale LGAs were trained in modern animal management, feeding, breeding, and healthcare husbandry to enhance productivity and minimise losses.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Chinyere Akujobi stated that successful livestock development requires more than merely providing animals but also equiping farmers with the requisite management skills.

Represented by the Director of the Department of Ruminant and Monogastric Development, Victor Egbon, she explained that the interventions are specifically designed to strengthen farmers’ productive capacity and improve household incomes.

According to her, “The sheep and goat subsector occupy a particularly important position within Nigeria’s livestock economy.

“Small ruminants are accessible to a wide range of households, require comparatively modest start-up investment, adapt to diverse production environments, and provide meat, milk, skin and other products that contribute to household nutrition and income.”

Akujobi further noted that “The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development therefore considers small ruminant development a strategic component of national food security, employment generation, poverty reduction, women’s economic participation, youth entrepreneurship and economic diversification.”

She added that the training merged theoretical sessions with practical demonstrations to ensure participants understood how proper husbandry contributes to healthier animals and increased financial returns.

Kano state Ministry of Livestock Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Rabi Ibrahim Waya, commended the federal intervention.

She assured that the state government would explore similar opportunities to help local farmers translate their newly acquired knowledge and inputs into sustainable economic activities.

The programme also featured contributions from key stakeholders, including the National Sheep and Goat Development Association of Nigeria (NASHGODAN) and the Africa Women in Animal Resources, Farming and Agribusiness Network, represented by Aisha Maidawa.

33 year old Afrahsiyya Idris, a person living with a disability, was among the active participants and beneficiary.

At the conclusion of the exercise, the 200 beneficiaries were empowered with live sheep and goats, animal feeds, and stipends to support the immediate application of their acquired skills and boost production across the state.