FG Seeks Stronger Partnerships to Unlock Nigeria's Livestock Potential

 

By AfreecanImage News Desk

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria's livestock sector through strategic partnerships, increased investment, and sustainable value chain development aimed at boosting food security, creating jobs, and accelerating economic growth.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, made the commitment during a meeting with an international delegation led by Safia Boly, where he highlighted Nigeria's vast investment opportunities in livestock production and called for stronger collaboration in fodder production, livestock breeding, and capacity building.

Nigeria Targets Large-Scale Fodder Production

The Minister said Nigeria possesses abundant natural resources suitable for commercial fodder cultivation, particularly in Kano State, which has several major dams, including the Challawa and Bagauda Dams.

He disclosed that the Ministry is exploring the possibility of dedicating some water resources exclusively to fodder production while partnering with development organizations to improve access to quality seeds.

Learning from Global Best Practices

Maiha explained that the Ministry is studying successful livestock development models from East Africa, especially Kigali, with plans to adapt proven strategies to Nigeria's unique environment and agricultural needs.

He also encouraged international partners to support the proposed National Livestock Education and Business (NLEB) initiative, describing it as a transformative programme capable of strengthening the entire livestock ecosystem.

             

Growing Investor Confidence

According to the Minister, Nigeria is witnessing increasing interest from both local and international investors.

He referenced a $490 million dairy financing initiative supported through the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's state visit to the United Kingdom.

Maiha also revealed that a private investor is collaborating with the Ministry to establish a 10,000-head cattle project on more than 6,000 hectares of land, which will include a modern livestock training institution alongside commercial farming operations.

He added that several investors are also exploring opportunities in dairy production, red meat processing, and commercial fodder cultivation.

Nigeria Eyes Gulf Export Market

The Minister said discussions are underway to position Nigeria as a major exporter of livestock products to Gulf countries.

He noted that Nigeria enjoys a competitive advantage due to its proximity to Gulf markets, requiring only about five hours of flight time, compared to much longer transit periods from competing livestock-exporting nations.

Combined with abundant natural resources, affordable labour, and government support, he said these factors make Nigeria an attractive destination for livestock investment.

Reviving the Hides and Skins Industry

Maiha also highlighted the country's thriving hides and skins industry, noting that some tanneries in Kano process up to 50,000 goat skins daily, with similar operations in Sokoto and Maiduguri.

To strengthen the sector, he directed Ministry officials to begin the process of re-establishing a dedicated Hides and Skins Desk to coordinate activities and improve value chain development.

He said better organization of the collection, processing, and marketing of hides and skins could generate thousands of jobs, especially for young Nigerians, while increasing export earnings and supporting rural economic development.

The Federal Government says it remains committed to attracting investment, expanding livestock production, strengthening value chains, and building strategic partnerships that will position Nigeria as a leading livestock hub in Africa while improving food security, employment, and economic diversification.

Source: Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.