The Federal Government looks into Ireland’s well-known farming and livestock model to promote Nigeria’s livestock industry reforms.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, revealed this when Irish Ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Peter Ryan paid a courtesy call at the ministry’s Abuja headquarters.
The visit emphasised innovation, research, and farmer education, focusing on enhancing agricultural cooperation, especially in livestock development.
Ambassador Ryan highlighted Ireland’s transformation from a traditional agrarian society to a global leader in technology and services, while sustaining a robust farming sector.
He noted that over 130,000 Irish family farms thrive under cooperative structures and a government-backed advisory system.
“Our farming is rooted in community and tradition. Each farmer has access to a dedicated advisor. Through this collective approach and sustained investment in education and research, we’ve tripled dairy output since 2015,” Ryan said.
He proposed collaboration in livestock genetics, cooperative development, extension services, and sustainable grazing.
He also pointed to Ireland’s global leadership in agricultural research and education.
Dr. Maiha welcomed Ireland’s support, describing it as timely. “We are in a season of transformation. Ireland’s model offers critical lessons in livestock breeding, disease control, cooperative systems, and tech-driven productivity,” he said.
The Minister confirmed Nigeria’s interest in sending a delegation to the National Ploughing Championship in Ireland this September. This annual event draws over 250,000 participants.
Possible student exchange programs and institutional collaborations to support the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) and the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) were also discussed.
The news of Professor Stephen Onakuse’s impending trip to Nigeria was a major highlight. Onakuse, a Nigerian scholar in Ireland, is well-known for his contributions to sustainable grazing and cattle genetics.
The Irish Embassy is organising its May visit, which will catalyse technical cooperation between institutions in both nations.
Source: Leadership
Image Credit: X
