Kano in focus: Mischievous criticism of Kano livestock revolution amid a life saving initiative

The Kano State Government has responded to unfounded criticisms of its livestock fattening and goat reproduction scheme, a flagship component of the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Programme (KSADP).

The government described the attacks as mischievous attempts to mislead the public and derail efforts to empower rural communities. The criticisms, particularly targeting the recent distribution of goats to female farmers, undermine an initiative designed to promote animal husbandry, improve livelihoods, and enhance food security in Kano State.

Significance of the Livestock Fattening Scheme
Launched in 2019, the KSADP is a $95 million project funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF), and the Kano State Government. Its primary objective is to reduce poverty by 30 per cent among beneficiaries and improve nutrition by boosting meat production in the state.
The programme focuses on three core components:1. Agro-Pastoral Productivity and Production Enhancement – Increasing meat and livestock productivity.

2. Market Access and Value Addition – Improving the economic potential of agricultural products.

3. Project Coordination and Management – Ensuring seamless implementation and impact.

The Agro-Pastoral Productivity Enhancement component has been particularly impactful, with livestock farmers reporting substantial improvements. Bulls now produce an additional 100kg of beef, and rams provide an extra 15kg of meat after a 120-day fattening period. Additionally, goats in the reproduction scheme are expected to produce at least two kids within six – 12 months, ensuring sustainable benefits for farmers.

Impact on Meat Production and Livelihoods
The livestock fattening initiative has become a lifeline for thousands of rural families, tackling poverty and malnutrition by increasing beef, mutton, and goat meat production. Each fattening cycle is projected to yield 6,000 metric tons of additional beef and mutton, significantly contributing to food security in Kano State.

Sustaining the Programme Under Governor Abba Yusuf
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has prioritised the KSADP scheme as a cornerstone of his administration’s development agenda. Recognising the importance of continuity, he approved the continuation of livestock distribution to ensure rural communities continue benefiting from this transformative programme.
To promote transparency and fairness, Governor Yusuf directed the Community Reorientation Committee (CRC) to oversee the selection of beneficiaries. This approach has fostered public trust and ensured that the scheme reaches those most in need.

Recent Milestones in Livestock Distribution
Under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, the KSADP has achieved remarkable progress:
First Cycle (Second Phase): In August 2023, thousands of goats and rams were distributed to women across all 44 local government areas.
Second Cycle (First Phase): Recently launched, distributing over 7,000 goats to more than 2,000 women.
Future plans include distributing rams to male and female youth and bulls exclusively to young men for fattening purposes.

Economic and Nutritional Benefits
The livestock fattening programme is a comprehensive approach to rural development. By equipping women and youth with livestock, the initiative fosters financial independence, creates generational occupations, and tackles food insecurity.
Given that a large portion of Kano’s population is engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, the scheme is diversifying economic opportunities and enhancing rural incomes. Additionally, the increased availability of protein-rich meat is improving household nutrition, particularly in underserved communities.

Kano’s Leadership in Livestock Farming
According to the 2024 National Agricultural Sample Census, Kano State plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s livestock industry. The Northwest region contributes 33 per cent of the country’s livestock, with Kano accounting for 8 per cent including approximately 1.458 million goats. Kano also has the highest number of agricultural households in Nigeria, at 2.369 million, reinforcing its strategic advantage in agriculture and livestock farming.

Modernising Agriculture Through KSADP
The KSADP has introduced advanced agricultural practices, including improved seeds, regenerative farming techniques, and extensive training on modern agronomy. These advancements are empowering farmers to increase output while preserving the environment, positioning Kano as a leader in sustainable agriculture.

Empowering Women and Youth
The programme’s focus on female farmers shows the administration’s commitment to gender inclusivity and rural empowerment. Women, often the backbone of rural economies, are being equipped to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth.
By targeting youth, the initiative ensures sustainability, providing long-term employment opportunities and addressing unemployment in Kano State.

Strengthening Rural Communities
With Kano’s rich agricultural heritage, the KSADP aligns seamlessly with the state’s cultural and economic strengths. The scheme is reviving ancestral occupations, improving the quality of life for rural dwellers, and reducing the urban-rural economic divide.

A Vision for a Prosperous Kano State
Governor Yusuf’s leadership reflects a commitment to empowering ordinary citizens through sustainable initiatives. The KSADP livestock fattening scheme is a testament to this vision, delivering tangible benefits to rural communities and solidifying Kano’s position as a leading agricultural state in Nigeria.

Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa is the Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano