Nigeria launches ambitious commercial pasture production to revitalise livestock, meat sectors

NIGERIA – Nigeria has announced an ambitious plan to implement commercial pasture production to revamp its livestock and meat industries, unveiled by Minister Idi Mukhtar Maiha of the new Ministry of Livestock Development during a recent address in Kaduna State’s Chikun Local Government Area.

This shift toward pasture production reflects global trends in livestock development and aims to unlock Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, given the country’s significant livestock population—over 20 million cattle, nearly 80 million goats, and nearly 50 million sheep.

Maiha highlighted the potential for growth in Nigeria’s livestock sector but stressed the importance of peaceful collaboration between herders and communities to ensure sustainable development. 

“The success of this initiative relies on stability and cooperation,” he stated, underscoring the administration’s commitment to fostering a productive and harmonious environment for livestock farming.

The establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s history, demonstrating President Tinubu’s dedication to modernising the agricultural sector. 

The ministry will address critical issues such as genetic improvement and infrastructure upgrades to boost productivity. 

Nigeria’s dairy sector, for instance, faces considerable challenges, with the average cow currently producing only one litre of milk daily—far below the global average of 6.6 litres. 

To close this gap, the government plans to introduce enhanced breeding techniques and develop grazing reserves with modern facilities, aiming to attract herders and improve livestock management practices.

As Nigeria’s population is projected to reach 402 million by 2050, the demand for high-protein foods, such as meat, milk, and eggs, continues to rise. 

This demographic growth, combined with urbanisation and increased per capita income, presents challenges and opportunities for the livestock sector. 

The sector’s potential is underscored by its substantial contribution to Nigeria’s GDP—accounting for an estimated 5%–30%—and providing around 36.5% of protein in Nigerian diets.

Despite this potential, the sector faces formidable obstacles, including conflicts between farmers and pastoralists, banditry, and cattle rustling. 

These challenges have led to livestock losses, displaced herders, and impacted the livelihoods of those who depend on livestock farming. 

Maiha emphasised that addressing security concerns is paramount to ensuring a stable environment for livestock growth alongside commercial pasture production.

The initiative also aims to improve legislative frameworks to attract local and foreign investment, positioning Nigeria as a key player in West Africa’s agricultural economy. 

The country’s poultry sector alone produces around 454,000 tonnes of meat annually and 3.8 million eggs, with the broader meat market valued at approximately US$40.74 billion and expected to grow at 12.01% annually through 2029. 

Community leaders, such as Aldon Alhaji Suleiman, have praised the government’s focus on livestock. They express optimism that the Ministry of Livestock Development will address the needs of herders nationwide.

He urged pastoralists to support the ministry’s mission, viewing it as a pathway toward a more productive and resilient livestock sector.

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