By Chika Kwamba
The Chairman of the National Butchers Union of Nigeria (NBUN), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Peter Onuoha, has called for unity and progress amongst butchers across the 25 local government areas in the state.
The newly elected chairman made this call earlier in the week while hosting all unit chairmen and secretaries of the Delta North region. The meeting was held at the Delsu Butchers Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society Modern Slaughterhouse, Anwai Campus, Asaba.
Addressing journalists at the venue, Comrade Onuoha shared his vision as he begins his tenure” Today, we hosted all the unit chairmen of Delta North, and we plan to do the same in Delta South and Delta Central. This will enable us to unite all butchers across 25 local governments in the state.
“We also aim to determine the current number of butchers in the state. As of 2017, we had about 36,700 members, and the number has continued to grow.
He continued ” Today’s meeting holds great importance. “We appreciate our amiable governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the newly completed abattoir in Boji Boji. We look forward to more such developments.
“Unions cannot be completely free of challenges, but I’m glad to report that all pending issues have been addressed. Also, the newly implemented revenue model is a welcome development. We are no longer in the oil boom era, and revenue generation is essential for governance.
“Our quota will help the government execute more projects. The new livestock revenue rate is now ₦800 per cow, up from ₦500. While we are not complaining, we appeal to the government to consider reducing the meat inspection fees on pigs and goats to ₦300 or ₦400 per head.” he said
Earlier at the event, the Consultant in charge of Produce and Veterinary Services for Delta North, Elder Godwin Igborgbor presented the official gazette on the revised meat inspection fees.He also commended the butchers for adhering to the regulations guiding the veterinary department.
Also speaking at the event, The Chairman NBUN Board of Trustees Chief Toju Awala, emphasized the significance of the meeting: “This meeting offers us a chance to interact directly with our members, listen to their concerns, and provide lasting solutions.” he said.
