Farmers-herders clashes: FG launches identification system for animals
Written by Joseph Emeribe on November 18, 2022
Federal Government has launched the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NATIS), with a view to tracing animals and checkmating cattle rustling and clashes between farmers and herders.
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Mohammed Abubakar, during the launch, in Abuja, said the project was initiated under the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) to address socioeconomic and security challenges bedevilling the livestock sector and absence of data for proper planning.
He described NATIS as a robust animal information management system that utilises ear tags, cattle passports and digital technology to identify and trace livestock across Nigeria, in line with global standards.
Guardian reports that the minister maintained that animal identification and traceability is crucial for global trade requirements and consumer concerns. It would also enable Nigeria compete favourably in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and launch the country’s livestock and livestock products into the international market.
