The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has emphasized the importance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in enhancing animal production and traceability in Nigeria. This statement was made during a working visit by a team of livestock production specialists from Protein Trail Limited to his office in Abuja.
According to Minister Maiha, appropriate ICT data and relevant applications that capture the history of animals are crucial for managing animal health and traceability in line with global best practices. He assured the team of the Ministry’s full support in areas such as land acquisition for ranching, feed and fodder, and breed improvements.
The Executive Director of Protein Trail Limited, Olaseni Salako, presented a new application developed by the company that tracks animals from birth to slaughter weight. The app records animal information, including color, health history, and vaccination records, allowing animals to be traced up to the point of slaughter.
Salako highlighted the need for tagging all animals to ensure traceability and veterinary certification for disease control. He noted that this move would help stop cattle rustling, enhance international market acceptance, and generate revenue through beef exportation. Additionally, the company is working on developing a Quick Response Code for Animal Products, enabling consumers to access information about the dairy products they purchase.
The Minister commended Protein Trail Limited for their efforts in transforming the livestock sector and pledged the Ministry’s support for their initiatives.
