By Magnus Effiong
The Cross River State government and the Federal Government are partnering to boost agriculture and livestock export, and has therefore commissioned Nigeria’s first Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility in Mfum, Ikom Local Government Area of the State.
Speaking while receiving the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Governor Bassey Otu said the state was poised to become a major livestock production and export hub for Nigeria and West Africa.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, said the facility would strengthen livestock development, improve export opportunities and enhance the state’s agricultural economy.
“For farmers who want to invest in livestock, it will be easier to export livestock from Obudu Ranch to anywhere in the world. We are making the ranch a five-star resort where visitors from all over the world will be happy to visit,” he said.
Governor Otu also disclosed that the Obudu International Passenger and Cargo Airport, located close to the Obudu Ranch Resort, is about 85 per cent completed, with the first aircraft expected to land in December 2026.
He added that the state plans to commence scheduled flights in the first quarter of next year, operating the Abuja–Bukalo route as well as Lagos–Obudu International Passenger and Cargo Airport.
Earlier, the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the Mfum facility as a strategic investment aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s livestock industry by ensuring that only healthy livestock enters the country through its borders with neighbouring countries.
“This is the first of its kind that we are building in the country. We are proud that Cross River is the first state where this facility is being formally commissioned.
“We believe Cross River is well positioned to dominate the red meat industry in the South-South. With Calabar’s access to the coast, we are just about five hours from Gulf markets. Nigeria’s red meat export market is estimated to be worth about $3.4 billion,” the minister said.
The Livestock Control Post and Guarantee Facility is expected to enhance disease surveillance, veterinary inspection, livestock certification and cross-border trade, while positioning Cross River as a key gateway for livestock exports in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
