Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi has stated that Nigeria’s dairy industry remains potential as a significant driver of economic growth and a crucial element in ensuring national nutritional security.
Speaking in Abuja at an event to mark the 2024 World Milk Day, the minister emphasised the industry’s role in addressing nutritional deficiencies, particularly among women and children.
Addressing the broader context of food security, Abdullahi stressed the importance of not just availability, affordability, and accessibility of food, but also its nutritional value.
He called for a focus on both plant-based and animal-based nutritional sources, underlining milk’s role in this regard.
The minister acknowledged the efforts of critical stakeholders, including the director of the department of animal husbandry services, Winnie Lai-Solarin in advancing the industry.
He noted the recent conclusion of the MSP for feed and fodder, essential for the dairy sector’s development, given that well-nourished livestock are crucial for high-quality milk production.
Abdullahi assured that the government is committed to implementing the recommendations of the National Dairy Policy and advancing the sector without complaints, while urging stakeholders to join in the collective effort.
He lauded the industry’s achievements and encouraged its players, whom he described as future millionaires, to continue their good work.
Abdullahi also highlighted the importance of youth involvement in the industry in line with inclusivity in the Renewed Hope agenda,
He also expressed confidence in the positive impact of ongoing initiatives in the dairy sector on Nigeria’s economic future.
He said,” We believe that the dairy industry is another very strong economic growth path for this country, and we believe that it’s also a very key input into our national and nutritional security.
President Bola Tinubu is totally committed to the Nigerian project, he is totally committed to providing what it takes for Nigeria to be totally food secure”.
