LOKOJA: Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has sworn in Dr. Olufemi Bolarin as the Commissioner for Livestock Development.
A Government House statement on Friday said the move is aimed at bolstering the state’s agricultural sector.
The swearing-in took place during a State Executive Council meeting held in Lokoja.
Dr Bolarin, who was confirmed by the Kogi State House of Assembly several months ago, is now tasked with spearheading policies and programmes to enhance livestock production and strengthen the value chain within the sub-sector.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo expressed his confidence in Dr Bolarin’s capacity to deliver on his mandate.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to agricultural diversification and the transformation of the rural economy, highlighting the new ministry as a key component of this strategy.
Kogi State holds the distinction of being the first state in Nigeria to establish a Ministry of Livestock Development.
This followed the federal government’s decision in July 2024, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to create a similar ministry at the national level.
The creation of the ministry underscores the state’s focus on harnessing the potentials of its livestock resources and positioning itself as a leader in agricultural innovation.
