The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has announced a target to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector into a $74 billion economic powerhouse.
Speaking at the National Stakeholders Roundtable in Abuja on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, the Honourable Minister, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has detailed how this goal aligns with a massive $50 billion investment initiative recently unveiled by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA).
The Ministry is to leverage this private sector-led momentum to accelerate the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS), moving the industry beyond its current $32 billion contribution to the economy.
Sustainable growth in the sector will now rely heavily on a shift toward private investment and digital innovation.
Minister Maiha commended NACCIMA President Jani Ibrahim for spearheading this approach, noting that government intervention alone is insufficient for a total sectoral overhaul.
He stated, “Government alone cannot drive this transformation; the future of Nigeria’s livestock sector depends on bold, private sector-led investment across the value chain.
We see the private sector not just as participants, but as the primary drivers of this economic revolution.”
To reach the $74 billion mark, the Ministry has identified red meat, dairy, and leather as priority value chains. These sectors are viewed as critical for import substitution and export expansion.
Targeted interventions will include feed development, pasture expansion, and genetic improvement of local breeds.
The Minister urged investors to look specifically at ranching, cold chain logistics, and veterinary services as high-growth areas.
“Our focus is on practical interventions that will improve productivity, strengthen animal health systems, and create sustainable value,” he added, highlighting the millions of livelihoods currently supported by the trade.
The roundtable concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to remove bottlenecks in the industry.
With NACCIMA’s $50 billion commitment, stakeholders believe Nigeria is positioned to become a regional leader in animal protein production.
By focusing on processing and value addition, the Ministry expects to create thousands of new jobs while reducing the country’s reliance on foreign livestock products, effectively turning a traditional practice into a modern, data-driven industry.
Source: FMLD
