FG PARTNERS FARMERS WITH DISABILITIES TO BOOST LIVESTOCK SECTOR

The Federal Government has pledged to support farmers with disabilities in Nigeria through targeted programmes aimed at strengthening the livestock sector and promoting inclusive agricultural development.

This commitment was made by the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during a meeting with the Association of Farmers with Disabilities in Nigeria (AFDiN), led by its President, Dr. James Lalu, in Abuja on Wednesday 6th May, 2026.

The Minister noted that agriculture remains critical to food security, job creation, and national stability, stressing that persons with disabilities have a vital role to play across the livestock value chain.

He explained that,  members of the association can benefit from training in areas such as animal husbandry, veterinary support services, and community-based livestock management, adding that the Ministry is expanding opportunities for inclusive participation.

Maiha further disclosed,  that the Ministry’s programme  1,000,  targeting youth and women in every state, including the FCT, will deliberately incorporate farmers with disabilities.

“We will ensure inclusion when selecting beneficiaries. Farmers with disabilities must be part of this process,” he said.

The Minister also commended , the association for its contributions to agronomic activities and assured them, of continued support through capacity building and the provision of livestock to enhance productivity.

In his remarks, AFDIN President, Dr. James Lalu, highlighted that many of the association’s members are actively engaged in poultry, sheep, and goat farming, among other areas within the livestock value chain.

He called on the government to provide targeted empowerment packages, especially for members in rural communities, to help scale their operations.

“We are not here for pity. We are capable, we are active, and we can succeed just like anyone else. What we need is support and understanding,” Lalu stated.

He added that stronger collaboration with the Ministry would help address longstanding challenges faced by farmers with disabilities and unlock their full potential.

The President also commended the Minister’s commitment to inclusion and his broader efforts to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Henrietta Okokon 
Deputy Director
Information and Public Relations.
6th May, 2026.