Firm Strengthens Nigeria’s Dairy Value Chain, Supports Women

Outspan Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of OFI (olam food ingredients), has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s dairy value chain and supporting women dairy farmers as part of activities marking World Milk Day 2026 in Kano State.

Speaking at an event in Kano yesterday, manager of the Backward Integration Programme (Dairy) at Outspan Nigeria Limited, Dr Isah Abubakar, said the company’s strategy is built on four pillars: genetic improvement, feed support, animal health improvement and livelihood support for pastoralist communities.

According to him, the programme promotes breed improvement through artificial insemination to increase milk yields, while providing access to quality feed and training on improved feeding practices. He added that veterinary services, including vaccination and deworming campaigns, are helping to improve herd health and productivity.

Dr Abubakar said the company is also supporting farmers through training, market access and other initiatives designed to improve household incomes and resilience.

The district head of Dawakin Kudu, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, commended the company for its support to dairy farmers in the area. He said the programme has helped farmers increase milk production, access markets and improve their incomes, while also supporting education through the donation of school bags and writing materials.

As part of this year’s World Milk Day theme, “Celebrating Women Dairy Farmers,” Outspan recognised outstanding female participants in the local dairy value chain. Rakia Saadu was named Best Female Participant in her category.

Expressing her appreciation, Saadu said the recognition would encourage her to continue contributing to the local dairy business.

Also speaking at the event, a representative of the Kano State Ministry of Livestock Development, Yahaya Sani Abbas, praised the collaboration between Outspan Nigeria Limited and the Kano Dairy Cooperative Federation.

He said the partnership has played a significant role in supporting smallholder dairy farmers, particularly women, and serves as a model for advancing agricultural development and rural prosperity in the state.

Stakeholders at the event highlighted the sector’s potential to improve household incomes and food security in rural communities. Through its partnership with the Kano Dairy Union, Outspan Nigeria said it has implemented a backward integration programme aimed at improving milk collection efficiency, cattle health and farmer productivity.