The senate on Tuesday passed into second reading a bill seeking to create a database for cows in the country.
According to the proposed law sponsored by Muhammad Enagi from Niger south, an agency created will be in charge of identification, traceability and registration of livestock such as cows and goats to among other things curb cattle rustling.
It will also ensure the protection, control and management of all livestock in Nigeria.
Enagi said that in addition to checking cattle rustling, the bill will help address the diseases and other threats to human lives caused by the movement of livestock.
He said the agency in charge will also ensure that animal products being imported into, or sold in, Nigeria are easily traced to ensure human safety.
The senator said livestock identification by the agency will include ownership and other details including their origin, birthplace, sex and breed.
After deliberating on the bill, the red chamber referred it to its committee on agriculture and rural development for further action.
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