Worsening insecurity and climate change are dealing a heavy blow to Nigeria’s livestock industry, costing the economy up to ₦7.17 trillion annually and wiping out as much as 40 per cent of the nation’s animals, a report by Agramondis Research and Consulting has revealed.

The sector, which holds an estimated 417 million animals, including 20.9 million cattle, 49.1 million goats, 88.2 million sheep, 258.5 million chickens, and 9.2 million pigs, contributes 10 per cent to agricultural GDP, serves as a major protein source, and sustains 4.5 million pastoralists and support workers.

Despite its economic weight, federal investment remains low. The proposed 2025 budget allocates just ₦1.77 billion to animal health improvements, disease prevention, and sustainable livestock management initiatives.

The report highlights a web of constraints stifling growth. Grazing land shortages, erratic rainfall, drought, and farmer-herder clashes have reduced feed quality and availability. Internal inefficiencies, climate change, and insecurity further undermine productivity.

Heat stress alone could slash production by 15 per cent annually, amounting to ₦904 billion in losses, while drought is estimated to cost the sector ₦10.5 trillion annually.

Experts point to untapped opportunities in genealogical bookkeeping, livestock tracking, veterinary services, climate-resilient breeding, supply chain traceability, digital insurance, and extension services. 

Poor animal husbandry was identified as the biggest investment gap, worth ₦24.5 trillion but requiring significant capital.

The report also estimates that poor record-keeping and lack of livestock data among smallholders represent a ₦13.63 trillion market opportunity for digital agriculture solutions.

Source: Politics Nigeria