The Commodities Development Initiative (CDI) and the Nigeria Feed and Fodder Multi-Stakeholders Platform (NFFMSP) have formed a strategic alliance with the Benue State government to drive large-scale feed and fodder production, aimed at domestic and international markets.
The initiative is projected to generate $70 million in revenue for the state over the next few years.
Already Benue State has secured funding to cultivate 1,000 hectares of fodder initially, with plans to expand to 6,000 hectares within three years.
This project is expected to cater to the growing demand for feed and fodder in both domestic and international markets, particularly targeting exports to the United Arab Emirates.
Speaking after the Agriculture Summit Africa hosted by Sterling Bank, CDI Managing-director, in Abuja yesterday, Roland Oroh stressed the importance of transitioning Nigeria’s livestock sector from subsistence to commercial operations.
The “Deal Room” facilitated connections between project promoters, investors, and financial institutions, aiming to secure funding and promote market opportunities within the sector.
“We’re thrilled to announce a major deal between CDI and Benue State. This partnership will attract substantial investment into the state’s feed, fodder, and livestock sector.
“Benue has already secured funding for a 1,000-hectare fodder production project focused on exports, and the expansion to 6,000 hectares could bring $70 million in revenue to the state within a few years, Oroh stated.
In addition to the initiative, Benue State has attracted $100 million in investment interest from South African companies with an ongoing arrangement to establish a contract between the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and CDI, among other partners, for the commercial production of Juncao grass.
President of the NFFMSP, Professor Maikano Ari, highlighted the platform’s role in uniting value chain stakeholders, including banks, farmers, and companies, to unlock the sector’s untapped potential.
“The feed and fodder sector offers significant commercial opportunities, but many players lack connectivity. Our goal is to bridge this gap and create a cohesive network to advance the sector,” he said.
Professor Ari also noted that the platform’s collaboration with Benue State leverages the state’s fertile lands for pasture development and seed production, with multiple byproducts that have commercial value.
Emphasising the vital link between feed availability and livestock sector growth, Ari stated that feed represents 60 per cent of production costs within the livestock industry.
Director of Animal Husbandry Services at the Ministry of Livestock Development, Winnie Lai Solarin, lauded the NFFMSP’s role as a comprehensive platform connecting stakeholders across the feed and fodder supply chain.
“The platform brings together financial institutions, development partners, the government, and livestock farmers. It creates opportunities for dialogue and collaboration, offering a level playing field where everyone can contribute their expertise,” she noted.
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