The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its commitment to collaborating with the Brazilian government to advance the livestock industry, aiming to bolster food security and drive economic growth.

This commitment was reaffirmed by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, during a meeting with the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mr. Carlos Garcete, at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.

The Minister highlighted the ministry’s strategic goals, which include enhancing research and development, improving livestock breeds, advancing feed and fodder production, and fostering an investment-friendly environment for private sector engagement.

“The establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Tinubu underscores Nigeria’s determination to modernize its livestock sector and attract global investments,” Maiha stated.

Recent discussions at the G20 Summit in Brazil resulted in commitments from major Brazilian livestock firms, including JBS, with representatives already conducting site visits to Nigerian livestock markets. A technical team is set to carry out feasibility studies next month, laying the groundwork for transformative projects.

Brazil’s Ambassador, Mr. Carlos Garcete, emphasized his country’s global leadership in livestock production and expressed eagerness to support Nigeria in building a sustainable livestock framework. “Our focus goes beyond exporting meat to Nigeria. We aim to create opportunities for local production, generate jobs, and transform Nigeria into a hub for livestock exports across Africa,” Garcete said.

In a significant step to strengthen bilateral relations, the Brazilian Export Agency, led by its President Mr. Jorge Viana, will organize a Brazil-Nigeria Trade Mission on January 27, 2025. This event will bring together 50 business leaders from 16 Brazilian industries to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria.

Key areas of collaboration between the two nations include breed improvement, feed and fodder production, and significant investments in livestock enterprises. These efforts are part of Nigeria’s mandate to modernize the livestock industry, create jobs, reduce poverty, and position the country as a competitive player in the global livestock market.

The Minister of Livestock Development and other key officials are set to participate in the upcoming trade mission as keynote speakers, reinforcing Nigeria’s readiness to embrace innovative solutions for livestock development.

This partnership promises to not only strengthen ties between Nigeria and Brazil but also create a transformative impact on Nigeria’s livestock sector, driving food security and sustainable economic growth.