A former member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Emmanuel Utande, has called on the government to establish a modern abattoir in Obudu, Cross River State, as a strategic solution to frequent farmer-herder clashes in the region and surrounding states.
Utande, who represented Obudu Federal Constituency during the Second Republic, said a centralized slaughterhouse would help regulate cattle movement, reduce conflicts over grazing land, and enhance food processing infrastructure.
Speaking to journalists, the octogenarian explained that the proposed abattoir, supported by the Obudu cargo airport, would facilitate the transportation of cattle and distribution of meat products across Nigeria and internationally.
“This facility will serve as a central point for cattle, reducing the need for open grazing and the resulting confrontations,” Utande said. “It will also create jobs, generate revenue, and stimulate development in the area.”
Utande drew comparisons to Botswana, which he visited in 1980 as part of a National Assembly delegation. He noted that the southern African country has one of the largest abattoirs and livestock populations in the world, which Nigeria could emulate.
He also urged local farmers to cultivate soya beans, which are commonly used in cattle fattening and feed production, to support the proposed meat-processing operation.
In addition to meat, he highlighted the economic potential of by-products like cheese and milk, which are in high demand globally and could contribute to Nigeria’s export earnings.
Utande recommended that both the federal and Cross River State governments explore partnerships with reputable international firms to actualize the project.
He maintained that such an initiative would not only boost the economy but also address recurring violence tied to farmland destruction and uncontrolled grazing routes.
