Nigeria’s livestock sector is on the brink of transformation as international stakeholders, including Egypt and Denmark, show strong interest in collaboration. These partnerships aim to modernize the industry, foster innovation, and position Nigeria as a hub for sustainable livestock production in Africa.

The Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamed Fouad, expressed Egypt’s readiness to leverage its expertise in livestock breeding, feed production, and animal health to support Nigeria. Speaking during a visit to Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the pioneer Minister of Livestock Development, Fouad congratulated him on his appointment and highlighted Egypt’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s livestock potential.

Similarly, a Danish delegation, led by Ambassador Jens Ole Bach Hansen and executives from top Danish livestock firms, visited the ministry to explore opportunities for collaboration. Jens Ole praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foresight in establishing the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, describing it as a pivotal step toward addressing agricultural challenges.

Peder Pederson, Managing Director of Arla Foods, emphasized Nigeria’s vast potential, citing the nation’s population of over 200 million as an untapped market for dairy products. He proposed integrating milk into the School Feeding Program, which could improve nutrition while supporting local dairy production.

The Danish delegation also invited Minister Maiha and his team to Denmark to explore advanced livestock systems and foster knowledge exchange.

Responding to these initiatives, Minister Maiha reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to partnerships that would diversify and modernize the livestock sector. He outlined the ministry’s priorities, including:

• Establishing state-of-the-art laboratories to improve indigenous breeds.
• Achieving self-sufficiency in feed and fodder production.
• Capacity-building programs for ministry staff.

“The creation of this ministry reflects the Nigerian government’s commitment to positioning livestock development as a cornerstone of national economic growth,” Maiha stated.

These partnerships are expected to drive innovation, attract investments, and unlock the sector’s potential, ensuring that Nigeria’s livestock industry contributes meaningfully to food security, employment, and economic sustainability.

Farm Alert celebrates these developments as a significant milestone for the livestock sector and will continue to track updates on these impactful collaborations.