The federal government has unveiled a cutting-edge Feed Database and Interactive Dashboard to transform livestock management in Nigeria, as part of a high-level forum hosted by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) in collaboration with the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the Gates Foundation, and other partners.
Held in Abuja, the Feed and Fodder Investment Forum brought together stakeholders from across Africa to showcase Nigeria’s new tools for feed sector reform.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the initiative as a “game-changer,” saying it will drive investment, improve productivity, and strengthen the resilience of livestock farmers.
“These efforts have culminated in a reliable and scientifically validated Feed Inventory and Fodder Balance Report, providing an accurate picture of our feed resources, gaps, and opportunities,” Maiha said.
He noted that the digital platform would support better decision-making by offering real-time data on feed availability, quality, pricing, and distribution.
“With this system in place, we must now focus on strengthening institutional capacity, promoting private sector engagement, and mainstreaming the use of this data at all levels of planning and implementation,” the minister added.
Director of AU-IBAR, Dr Huyam Ahmed Salih applauded Nigeria’s leadership in the region, pointing out that only 9 of 47 African countries have undertaken similar feed assessments.
She highlighted the mobilisation of over US$248 million in investment as a major step forward.
RAFFS project coordinator, Dr Sarah Ossiya, welcomed participants from across the continent and linked animal malnutrition to long-term economic consequences.
“Stunted children today mean a stunted economy tomorrow. Africa’s GDP is estimated to be reduced by 10 percent due to malnutrition alone,” she said.
Director of Ruminants and Monogastrics Development, Winnie Lai-Solarin called for strategic feed reserves and stronger private sector participation, noting that Nigeria already has feed surpluses and international interest from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The event concluded with the official handover of the feed inventory report and tools to the ministry. Delegations from ECOWAS, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe attended, alongside research institutions and private sector players.
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