The Abuja chapter of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria has organised a quiz competition to inspire young Nigerians to embrace livestock agriculture as a career.

The competition held in Abuja offered a platform for young pupils to showcase their understanding of animal science and agriculture, a reminder that the future of agriculture rests in the curiosity of young Nigerians.

The theme of the quiz is ‘Young Animal Scientist Secondary School Quiz Competition’.

John Taiwo, chairman of the ASAN, Abuja, stated that animal science is the largest sector of agriculture and the leading professional course in the field, offering diverse and impactful careers.

He told the participants that they could explore a few exciting career paths, such as animal nutritionist, genetics and breeding specialist, livestock entrepreneur (agribusiness tycoon), research scientist, and livestock extension officer, among others.

The ASAN chairman tasked the youths with the responsibilities awaiting them.

Mr Taiwo said that agriculture and animal science were the sectors largely responsible for the sustenance of food security in the nation. He said that to achieve this, it was important for technocrats running the sector to remain proactive to ensure the optimal production of what the masses need for survival.

Decrying the high cost of meat in the market, he said resolving the issue of farmer-herder clashes with ranching, where the cows could be fed with better fodder, was the way to go.

Victor Egbon, director of the Department of Ruminants and Monogastric Development of the FMLD, said there were several activities on the ground to tackle Nigeria’s food situation.

He disclosed that a strategy known as the Nigerian Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy consisted of ten pillars, and one of them involved encouraging peaceful co-existence and reducing herder-farmer clashes.

(NAN)