Nigeria plans to double the economic contribution of the livestock sector

President Bola Tinubu announced plans to modernize the sector at the opening of the 9th All-African Conference on Animal Agriculture in Abuja. On behalf of the president, the state's interests were represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. The administration's strategy is aimed at transforming Nigeria into a regional hub for the production and processing of livestock products, as well as strengthening food security and creating new jobs.

To implement these tasks, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development was established in July 2024. The main goal of the agency is the transition from traditional farming methods to modern, technological, and commercially competitive forms of production. The country possesses an impressive resource base: more than 58 million head of cattle, 64 million sheep, 124 million goats, and 660 million head of poultry.

Within the framework of the National Livestock Transformation Plan, the government plans to improve veterinary services, expand the production of commercial feed, and introduce climate-smart production systems. Particular attention is paid to animal genetics, pasture development, and the creation of infrastructure for milk collection. The authorities also intend to develop ranches and modern livestock management systems to increase productivity and minimize conflicts typical of traditional grazing.

The dairy industry transformation program aims to double local milk production by improving breeds and animal housing conditions with the active participation of the private sector. The state is taking measures to attract investment in key segments of value chains, including meat processing, feed production, the leather industry, and the creation of modern infrastructure for the storage and processing of products.