The Niger State Government has said it will embark on a reconstruction project for a modern abattoir in Minna.

The State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello approved the release of N100 million for the project which is estimated at N512.7 million.

Commissioner for Livestock and Fisheries, Alhaji Haruna Nuhu Dukku disclosed this during the Post Exco Media briefing held at the Government House, Minna.

Dukku said the Minna Abattoir, which is almost 50 years old, needed to be modernised to meet the desired standard.

He said that the reconstruction would be done in phases, as the funds for the remaining projects would be included in the 2021 budget.

According to him, this development will make the processes of slaughtering and production of meat more hygienic in line with global best practices.

He explained that the state government had in 2017 set up a committee to go round to see the condition of the various abattoirs in major cities and made recommendations.

“The report of the committee was that the Minna/Suleja abattoir was categorised as grade A while that of Kontagora, Bida, New Bussa were grade B while others were grade C.

“Based on the recommendation of the committee, the ministry approached the council for their reconstruction pending when funds are available for others,” he said.

He said when the modern abbatoir becomes operational, it will also bring together the over 50 slaughtering slabs scattered in and around Minna, and ultimately enhance capacity for the output of animals slaughtered daily.

The commissioner revealed that at least 1,800 cows, 1,500 sheep/rams, and 3,000 goats are slaughtered in Minna monthly.

SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA