…Target Breed Improvement, Reduction in Farmer-Herder Conflicts, Cattle Rustling, and Enhanced Disease Surveillance
The Gombe State Government, under the leadership of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has advanced plans for the award of contracts for the establishment of the state’s first-ever ultramodern Artificial Insemination Centre alongside six strategically located livestock control posts across major international stock routes.
The landmark projects, being implemented through the Gombe State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, are designed to strengthen livestock productivity, curb cattle rustling, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and enhance disease surveillance systems, thereby laying a stronger foundation for a modern, secure, and commercially competitive livestock sector in Gombe State.
Speaking during the bidding exercise, the Project Coordinator, Gombe L-PRES, Professor Usman Bello Abubakar, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the state’s drive to modernise livestock production and improve the livelihoods of farmers and pastoralists.
According to him, the establishment of the Artificial Insemination Centre reflects Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to transforming agriculture through innovation, research-driven solutions, and strategic investments.
Professor Abubakar explained that the centre would provide livestock farmers with access to improved breeds and modern breeding technologies and facilities aimed at enhancing cattle quality and productivity across the state.
He added that the facility would also foster collaboration among researchers, students, and livestock experts, particularly within academic institutions, thereby strengthening practical research, innovation, and capacity building in animal husbandry.
“The centre will not only support livestock farmers with modern breeding services, but will also serve as a research and training hub for students and agricultural professionals. This is expected to strengthen the livestock value chain and contribute significantly to the economic development of Gombe State,” he stated.
Professor Abubakar further commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for approving the full implementation of the projects, describing the administration as one that continues to prioritise agriculture, rural development, and sustainable economic growth.
He also disclosed that the six livestock rescue and control posts are strategic interventions aimed at reducing clashes between farmers and herders, particularly during harvest seasons when disputes over grazing and crop destruction are more prevalent.
According to him, the control posts will help monitor livestock movement, improve security, promote peaceful coexistence, and promote disease surveillance.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Cooperatives, Engr. Ahmad Guli, expressed satisfaction with the transparency, professionalism, and compliance demonstrated throughout the bidding process.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the projects in line with international best practices.
Engr. Guli noted that agriculture remains a central priority of the present administration and assured that government would continue to introduce transformative programmes capable of boosting food production, livestock development, and broader economic opportunities for residents.
“We are impressed with the level of openness and compliance demonstrated during the bidding process. Government will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the smooth execution of these projects for the benefit of the people of Gombe State,” he said.
In his remarks, the representative of Gombe State University, Dr. Zubairu Sulaiman, praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for approving the siting of the Artificial Insemination Centre in the newly established Faculty of Agriculture of Gombe State University.
He described the decision as a major milestone for the university and the state, noting that the facility would significantly enhance practical learning, research, and community engagement.
Speaking on behalf of the nine companies that participated in the exercise, Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar of Horizon Interlinks Global Resource Limited commended the L-PRES project management team for conducting what he described as a fair, transparent, and credible process.
He noted that the integrity of the bidding exercise has strengthened confidence among participating firms and reflects the government’s commitment to quality service delivery.
Mr. Ibrahim added that the participating companies remain prepared to deliver projects that meet global standards and align with the expectations of both government and the people.
The bidding exercise attracted nine interested companies, with the successful bidders expected to be announced after due evaluation and scrutiny in accordance with World Bank procurement principles and guidelines.