FG Intensifies Move Against Livestock Middlemen

The federal government is stepping up efforts to curb the influence of middlemen in Nigeria’s livestock sector, as part of ongoing reforms aimed at addressing rising prices and improving returns for producers.
This was contained in a statement issued by the assistant chief executive officer (Information), Ogochukwu Igboamalu, on behalf of the Ministry of Livestock Development.
The minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the dominance of intermediaries in the value chain continues to distort prices, leaving farmers with low earnings while increasing costs for consumers.
He said the government is prioritising direct linkages between livestock producers, processors, abattoirs and bulk buyers to improve efficiency and ensure fair pricing across the market.
“Producers do most of the work but earn the least, while middlemen take a larger share. This imbalance affects pricing and availability,” the minister said.
Maiha disclosed that the ministry is working to introduce a live-weight pricing system to standardise transactions and eliminate arbitrary pricing in livestock markets.
He also identified investment opportunities in pasture development, fodder production, dairy aggregation and leather processing, noting that the sector holds significant potential for job creation.
The minister reiterated the federal government’s plan to transition from open grazing to more structured livestock production systems to improve productivity, reduce conflicts and strengthen animal health management.
On security, he said measures are underway to deploy digital livestock tagging and traceability systems to curb cattle rustling and enhance monitoring of livestock movement.
He further disclosed that a digital platform is being developed to provide investors and stakeholders with access to data and opportunities within the sector.
The permanent secretary in the ministry, Dr Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, said the government remains committed to engaging stakeholders to ensure policies reflect the realities of farmers and industry players.