As livestock in Nigeria continues to face problem arising from violent attacks by rustlers , the Federal Government has launched the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) to identify, track and curb in security in the livestock barns .
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in Nigeria , DrMohammad Mahmood Abubakar said implementation of NAITS would support livestock owners to identify their animals, curb livestock rustling, facilitate interventions in the livestock sector. It will also provide provision of credit and insurance, livestock movement control, animal recording for genetic improvement and research, ease of traceability, surveillance, animal disease control among others.
He said that NAITS was a comprehensive animal information management system that would utilize forgery-proof ear tags and cattle passports combined with digital technology to identify and track livestock across Nigeria.
He notied that the system complies with the global standards stipulated by the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR).
He explained that technology advancement has rapidly enhanced security and safety of the animals in the country.
In his words, “I am therefore particularly pleased that the launching of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) to enhance the activities of our domestic livestock sector is taking place at this time”.
The Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, CFR, Etsu- Nupe commended the Federal Government for the implementation of NAITS stressing that it would assist to reduce tension arising from livestock rustling and crisis between farmers and herders which has claimed both humans and the Animals lives .
AAM Reports .
