The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has called for increased domestic food production to tackle Nigeria’s food insecurity. He urged households to produce at least one-third of what they consume, emphasizing that such initiatives could ease the strain on the nation’s food supply. Speaking at an event themed “Ending Hunger: Food Availability and Affordability in Nigeria,” the minister highlighted the untapped potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector, which, if fully developed, could significantly enhance food security, drive economic growth, and improve rural livelihoods.

Maiha stressed the urgency of modernizing the livestock industry, addressing long-standing challenges to unlock its economic potential. His outlined strategies include adopting intensive and semi-intensive farming systems such as feedlots and ranches to maximize resources, introducing high-yield livestock breeds with disease resistance, and expanding veterinary services and vaccination programs to combat disease outbreaks. The minister also advocated for developing value-added industries in meat, dairy, and leather processing, which would not only enhance the sector’s economic contributions but also create numerous job opportunities.

Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change, Maiha called for the adoption of climate-smart practices, including the cultivation of drought-resistant fodder crops, efficient water management, and silvo-pastoral systems that integrate trees, crops, and livestock for sustainable land use. He emphasized the need for significant investments in infrastructure, such as grazing reserves, water points, and improved transportation networks, to facilitate market access for livestock products. Additionally, the minister highlighted the importance of policies that address stakeholder conflicts, including land-use zoning and alternative livelihood programs.

To make animal-based foods more affordable and accessible, Maiha urged a focus on reducing inefficiencies in the livestock sector. This includes financial support for smallholder farmers, providing access to critical inputs, and training farmers on best practices. While emphasizing the pivotal role of the livestock sector in addressing hunger, he reiterated that achieving food security requires a collaborative approach, including advancements in crop production.

The minister concluded on a hopeful note, asserting that Nigeria has the resources and potential to meet the protein and energy needs of its growing population. He encouraged stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring food availability and affordability for all. At Farm Alert, we are inspired by this vision and remain committed to driving innovation, empowering farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to build a food-secure future for Nigeria.