By JOY AKINSANYA

The Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, through its Department of Veterinary Services, has set March 31 as the deadline for the registration of herders in the state.

Its Permanent-Secretary, Mrs Kehinde Jokotoye, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abeokuta.

Jokotoye noted that the registration, done in collaboration with the South West Commodity Farmers Organisation, Ogun Chapter, would improve security, resolve conflicts and enhance livestock management practices.

She said the registration would also allow herders to benefit from the government’s support, subsidies and incentives aimed at improving livestock production.

“In addition, the state government has also observed that some private veterinary practitioners and veterinary pharmaceutical outfits are operating illegally in the state.

“Slaughter slabs, live bird and cattle markets are also operating illegally without appropriate approvals and licensing by the Department of Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

“Those involved in the aforementioned unlawful activities have, therefore, been warned to desist forthwith or face the wrath of the law in accordance with the Animal Disease Control Act of 2022,” she said.

The permanent secretary enjoined them to get necessary government documentation related to their businesses for proper registration and approval. (NAN)