Livestock development is getting a great boost under the present administration. The latest news is that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has made a significant breakthrough in livestock production with the submission of eight new pasture varieties for registration, release, and certification. It is reported that the development marks a major milestone in the sector, coming 48 years after the last such intervention in Nigeria.
The new varieties include Brachiaria ruziziensis, Chloris gayana, Sorghum almum, Andropogon gayanus, Panicum mumbasa, Pennisetum purpureum, Napier grass, Mucuna pruriens, and Lablab purpureus. These varieties are expected to improve pasture establishment, increase market value, and enhance livestock productivity.
It is expected that farmers and other stakeholders in livestock production will benefit from certified seeds guaranteeing quality, purity, and genetic identity. And for the country, there will be an increase in investment in the pasture and fodder value chain, while the national seed system will be promoted, thus enhancing the growth of the livestock sector.
The move is expected to reduce the risk of weed and pest infestation, improve pasture establishment and productivity, increase market value, as well as protect investment and the environment. Other benefits include the prevention of weed spread, and conservation of biodiversity. expected to be felt across the country.
