Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has projected that Nigeria could earn over ₦150 billion annually through the export of livestock and related products, provided the country aligns with international trade standards and strengthens its value chain.

This announcement was made during the Value Chain Enhancement and Infrastructure Clinic held in Abuja, organized under the Livestock Productivity Enhancement and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES). The event brought together policymakers, private sector actors, and international stakeholders to explore innovative strategies for improving Nigeria’s livestock export potential.

Unlocking Export Opportunities Through Value Chain Development

The Executive Director of NEPC, Nonye Ayeni, represented by Mr. Macpherson Ileogben, NEPC’s Deputy Director of Product Development, emphasized that Nigeria holds significant potential in the livestock sub-sector, which remains largely untapped. He advocated for a multi-pronged strategy involving:

• Establishment of modern processing facilities for meat, dairy, and leather.
• Strengthening of animal traceability systems.
• Policy reform, infrastructure investment, and enhanced collaboration between government, private enterprises, and local communities.

Nigeria as a Global Player in Leather and Red Meat

Ayeni identified Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading producers of leather, with strong demand in Europe, Asia, and North America. He stressed that tackling persistent issues around product quality, sanitary standards, and traceability is key to unlocking new markets and doubling export earnings.

“The livestock sector contributes significantly to food security, employment, and wealth creation. With proper coordination, it can become a major foreign exchange earner for Nigeria,” Ayeni stated.

Government Backing and International Interest

Speaking at the event, Mr. Aliyu Sheriff, Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion (Office of the Vice President), affirmed the government’s commitment to boosting non-oil exports. He highlighted the creation of a dedicated ministry for livestock and recent visits by Brazilian delegations exploring investment opportunities as clear indicators of the sector’s rising profile.

“This sector holds immense potential to empower youth, support rural livelihoods, and reduce dependency on crude oil. We must seize the moment,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr. Ibrahim Usman, President of the Nigeria-Saudi Chamber of Commerce, reiterated the urgent need for private investment in the livestock industry. He noted that Saudi Arabia, which imports a large proportion of its red meat, presents a lucrative market for Nigeria’s livestock exports.

“By attracting foreign investors, especially from meat-importing nations like Saudi Arabia, Nigeria can build resilient food systems while boosting its agricultural GDP and forex reserves,” Usman explained.