The Federal Government and private sector have partnered to unlock over $70 billion in economic value to position its livestock sector for unprecedented growth.
Through innovative financing models, climate-smart practices, and strategic partnerships, the country will boost productivity, create jobs, and establish a sustainable, high-yield livestock economy capable of competing globally.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the livestock sector through strategic investments and innovative financing.
Speaking at an engagement with the private sector on investment opportunities in Climate-Resilient Livestock Systems, Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha, described the initiative as timely and strategic.
“The outcomes of this engagement will serve as a key framework for shaping Nigeria’s livestock sector,” Maiha said, emphasising the need for targeted investment, technology adoption, and sustainable management practices.
Dr Tunde Amole, Country Director of the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Nigeria, added that years of underinvestment have caused economic losses and security challenges.
He highlighted that the National Livestock Growth Strategy (NLGAS) and a 15-year investment master plan provide a roadmap for sustainable sector growth.
The Bank of Agriculture (BOA) is scaling its financial support for livestock, which currently represents about 30% of its loan portfolio, focusing on poultry and cattle fattening.
BOA Managing Director Ayo Sotinrin revealed that local dairy cows produce just 1–2 litres of milk daily, compared with 16–40 litres from similar breeds in Southern Africa.
“With proper investment in high-performing breeds and improved management, Nigeria can achieve comparable productivity,” he said.
BOA is collaborating with organisations such as Christian Aid and the Mastercard Foundation to support approximately 500,000 poultry farmers, the largest programme of its kind in the country.
The bank also plans investments in ranching, feedlots, and other critical value chain components, dedicating 30% of its recapitalisation funds to livestock development.
Frederick Benefenpong, CEO of Farming in Africa, noted growing private sector interest, with his company preparing to expand operations into Nigeria after successfully introducing improved goat, sheep, and cattle genetics in Ghana.
Experts emphasised the importance of environmental sustainability in the sector. High-performing breeds, feedlot systems, and agroforestry practices are being promoted to improve yields while reducing emissions and conserving resources.
The adoption of climate-smart livestock practices is expected to enhance productivity, improve resource efficiency, and boost profitability for farmers.
“The key is to develop the livestock sector in a climate-smart and sustainable way,” Dr. Amole said.
“Expanding production, improving productivity, and attracting investments while safeguarding the environment is essential for long-term growth.”
Coordinated public-private partnerships, targeted financing, and climate-smart practices are expected to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on meat imports, particularly from countries like South Africa, while creating jobs and stimulating rural economies.
Analysts believe that with proper management and investment, Nigeria can build a competitive, high-yield livestock sector capable of generating billions of dollars in revenue and employing millions of people.
Source: FRCN HQ
