By Jerry Akinade
The Federal Government has announced plans to accelerate the implementation of the National Ranching Policy to enhance livestock production, ensure food security, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and drive economic growth in Nigeria.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made the disclosure at a stakeholders’ engagement and poultry summit in Ilorin, Kwara State.
He explained that despite Nigeria’s vast potential in livestock production, inadequate coordination had limited the sector’s contributions until 2024.
The Minister revealed that the government is establishing National Livestock Centres across the country to optimize production along value chains, increase the sector’s contribution to national GDP from 32 billion dollars to 74 billion dollars, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Afeez Alabi, assured farmers of continued state support, including training, access to improved inputs, veterinary services, and development of livestock business value chains.
Chairman of Kwara State Poultry Farmers, Sanusi Kolapo, highlighted that the program would expose poultry farmers to modern farming techniques and equipment, calling on both federal and state governments to support the sector to improve protein supply nationwide.
Kwara State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, emphasized the role of agriculture in youth empowerment, noting that livestock farming presents opportunities for graduate employment and economic participation.
The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector into a strategic driver of food security, economic development, and social stability.
