Last year, the federal government unveiled a bold initiative to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector, introducing innovative and sustainable practices to drive growth and modernisation.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, outlined plans to integrate modern techniques, technology, and security solutions to enhance productivity and inclusivity in the sector.
He launched a three-day consultation in Abuja, engaging academia, private sector stakeholders, and government agencies.
“We’re moving beyond diagnostics and workshops to real implementation. Our focus is leveraging modern tools and strategies to connect every Nigerian to this vision,” Maiha stated.
Key initiatives include real-time monitoring with drones, enhanced grazing reserves, and infrastructure for pasture regrowth and hydro-energy.
In Kebbi State, a delegation of Brazilian investors led by Fabio Maia of JBS, a global leader in livestock industries, visited the Dodoru Cattle Market.
Maia praised the livestock quality and expressed interest in collaborative opportunities, citing Brazil’s extensive expertise in meat processing and dairy production.
The visit, facilitated by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), highlights growing international interest in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Kebbi’s Commissioner for Animal Health, Kabiru Usman Alaramma, credited the state’s proactive policies and partnerships with São Paulo, Brazil, for boosting its reputation as an agricultural hub.
The delegation also toured a rice mill and poultry factory, further exploring investment potential in Kebbi State. As the Federal Government and state initiatives align with international partnerships, Nigeria is poised to emerge as a global leader in livestock production and processing.
Stakeholders were urged to provide practical, actionable recommendations to drive swift implementation.
A veterinary surgeon and retired civil service director, Dr Ezenwa Mwakonobi, praised the Ministry of Livestock Development establishment as a “long-awaited initiative,” emphasising the need for harmonised efforts among professionals.
“We aim to harmonise ideas for the betterment of the livestock industry,” Mwakonobi said.
Livestock entrepreneur Miriam Ladi-Truman identified challenges in the dairy sector, including high operational costs due to unreliable electricity and limited financing options for small-scale farmers.
She called for cooperative structures to improve funding access and agricultural insurance to mitigate risks.
Producer Mohamed Bello Lutukur highlighted the sector’s economic potential, noting its diversity beyond beef to include dairy, hides, biogas, and more.
He applauded recent government initiatives, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Brazil, spotlighting Nigeria’s efforts to enhance agricultural productivity.
“This initiative isn’t just about beef. It includes dairy, mutton, goat products, and more,” Lutukur noted.
