The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has emphasized the importance of aligning academic research with the practical needs of the livestock industry. Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Kabiru Bala, the minister urged ABU and its affiliate, the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), to enhance their efforts in addressing real-world challenges faced by livestock stakeholders.

“Research must go beyond academic exercise. It should address pressing issues like disease control, productivity improvement, and supply chain optimization,” Maiha stated.

The minister highlighted NAPRI’s strategic role in advancing livestock production by promoting superior breeds, providing farmer support, and strengthening supply chains. With its vast 4,000-hectare land resource, he noted, NAPRI is well-positioned to spearhead innovative solutions in areas such as seed propagation and genetic improvement.

Maiha further stressed the need for more paraprofessionals and community animal health workers to meet the increasing demands of the sector. He called for a collaborative approach between NAPRI and the ministry to tackle critical issues such as abattoir modernization and the commercialization of research findings.

Addressing vaccine production shortfalls, the minister revealed that Nigeria produces only 15% of its annual requirement of 1.2 million vaccine doses. He urged both NAPRI and the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) to adopt a business-oriented approach, aiming not just to meet local demand but to explore opportunities in the wider West African market.

Maiha also announced a $2.5 billion investment commitment from JBS of Brazil to Nigeria’s livestock value chain. This partnership will establish six processing plants for beef, poultry, and pork production, presenting a unique opportunity for Nigeria to become a global player in the livestock sector.

“We must act quickly to build the infrastructure, expertise, and supply chains needed to seize this moment. NAPRI and other stakeholders must rise to the challenge by providing the required breeds, feed, and technical support,” Maiha said.

Representing ABU’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kabiru Junaid commended the minister, an alumnus of the university, on his appointment and assured him of ABU’s full support in achieving the ministry’s goals. He invited the minister to visit ABU and NAPRI to further strengthen collaboration.

This call for action underscores the ministry’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s livestock sector, ensuring that research delivers tangible benefits to farmers and the broader market.