President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as his special adviser and coordinator of the presidential livestock reform.

The appointment, announced on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a press release on March 7, 2025, aims to accelerate progress within Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Professor Jega, who previously co-chaired the Presidential Livestock Committee alongside President Tinubu, is expected to leverage his expertise to drive the implementation of the committee’s recommendations.

These recommendations notably included the establishment of a dedicated Livestock Ministry, now headed by a minister.

“Professor Jega’s wealth of experience and proven track record make him an invaluable asset to this administration,” stated Onanuga.

“His appointment underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the livestock sector and enhancing national development.”

Professor Jega, aged 68, brings a distinguished career to the role. A former Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, he also serves as a member of the International Elections Advisory Council and is the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano State.

His tenure as INEC chairman from 2010 to 2015 is widely recognised for its contributions to electoral reform in Nigeria.

“This appointment is a call to service, and I am honoured to contribute to the President’s vision for a revitalised livestock sector,”

Professor Jega reportedly said, according to sources within the presidency. “We will work diligently to ensure the successful implementation of the reform agenda.”

The presidential statement further emphasised that Jega’s appointment is intended to strengthen the existing reforms already underway and build upon the work of the presidential committee.

“His role will be critical in ensuring the sustained momentum of these vital reforms,” Onanuga added.