The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, has said the bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil would advance livestock development in the country.

Alhaji Maiha reiterated this when he welcomed a high-level delegation led by the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Carlos Garcete, to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.

The minister said the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development was a laudable decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a definitive statement to the world that Nigeria’s livestock sector is open for business.

“The representatives from JBS have already toured some of our livestock markets, and a technical team is scheduled to visit next month for feasibility studies. These steps will ensure that the agreements signed translate into concrete gains on the ground,” the minister said.

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He listed the ministry’s strategic focus areas to include research and development, breed improvement, feed and fodder production, and creating an enabling environment for private sector investment.

Referencing recent progress made during the G20 Summit in Brazil, where Nigeria secured commitments from leading Brazilian livestock companies, including JBS, the minister assured the Brazilian delegation of Nigeria’s readiness to do business.

“Research and development are at the forefront of our transformation agenda. Brazil has made significant advancements in this area, and we believe collaboration with Brazil will yield transformative results for Nigeria,” he noted.

Speaking earlier on behalf of the Brazilian government, Ambassador Garcete pointed out Brazil’s global leadership in livestock production and exports, stressing the country’s readiness to support Nigeria’s transformation efforts.