FG Eyes Irish Model For Livestock Reform

The Federal Government is exploring Ireland’s acclaimed livestock and farming model to drive reforms in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Minister of Livestock Development Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan, to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

The visit focused on strengthening agricultural cooperation, particularly in livestock development, emphasising innovation, research, and farmer education.

Ambassador Ryan highlighted Ireland’s transformation from a traditional agrarian society to a global leader in technology and services, while sustaining a robust farming sector.

He noted that over 130,000 Irish family farms thrive under cooperative structures and a government-backed advisory system.

“Our farming is rooted in community and tradition. Each farmer has access to a dedicated advisor. Through this collective approach and sustained investment in education and research, we’ve tripled dairy output since 2015,” Ryan said.

He proposed collaboration in livestock genetics, cooperative development, extension services, and sustainable grazing.

He also pointed to Ireland’s global leadership in agricultural research and education.

Dr. Maiha welcomed Ireland’s support, describing it as timely. “We are in a season of transformation. Ireland’s model offers critical lessons in livestock breeding, disease control, cooperative systems, and tech-driven productivity,” he said.

The Minister confirmed Nigeria’s interest in sending a delegation to the National Ploughing Championship in Ireland this September—an annual event drawing over 250,000 participants.

Talks also covered possible student exchange programmes and institutional partnerships to strengthen the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) and the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI).

A key highlight was the announcement of Professor Stephen Onakuse‘s upcoming visit to Nigeria. Onakuse is a Nigerian academic in Ireland known for his work in livestock genetics and sustainable grazing.

His visit, facilitated by the Irish Embassy and scheduled for May, will kickstart technical collaborations between institutions in both countries.