The African Development Bank (AfDB) has concluded an identification mission supporting wide-ranging reforms in animal production, youth employment and climate-smart agriculture.

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, on Friday, 6 February 2026, hosted the AfDB Identification Mission at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. 

The delegation was led by Dr Damian Ihedioha, Senior Agricultural Development Leader at the Bank.

The meeting marked the close of the mission and focused on identifying priority investment areas to transform Nigeria’s livestock industry into a resilient, productive and commercially competitive sector.

Minister Maiha explained that the Ministry’s core objective is to ensure year-round availability of quality feed, fodder and sustainable water resources. 

According to him, improving access to these essentials is critical to boosting livestock productivity, strengthening climate resilience and reducing long-standing conflicts linked to grazing pressure.

He noted that reliable feed and water systems are also central to climate-smart livestock farming, helping producers adapt to climate variability while protecting rural livelihoods.

Discussions between the Ministry and AfDB were structured around six key intervention areas. 

These include feed, fodder and water development to guarantee a consistent supply throughout the year, alongside strengthened animal health services focused on disease prevention and improved productivity.

Other priority areas include value chain development and animal breed improvement, aimed at genetic upgrading, value addition and stronger market competitiveness across meat, dairy and related industries.

A major highlight of the proposed programme is the Livestock Enterprise Support Programme, which is designed to create jobs and sustainable livelihoods for young people and women. 

The initiative will provide starter packs, technical training and access to markets, helping new entrants build viable livestock businesses.

The programme also emphasises finance and insurance, with plans to expand access to affordable credit and livestock insurance schemes to reduce risk for producers and agribusinesses.

The final component focuses on institutional capacity and project coordination, including improved human resource development, stronger coordination across government levels and robust monitoring frameworks to ensure effective delivery.

The AfDB delegation expressed optimism about the Ministry’s strategic direction and confirmed that the Bank will explore funding options to support Nigeria’s ambition to build a modern, inclusive and climate-resilient livestock sector.

Source: Federal Ministry of Livestock Development