Nigeria’s Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, had, at a Ministerial Press Briefing, expressed his ambitious vision of doubling the livestock sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and significantly boosting the country’s livestock population and their productivity.

This goal, while commendable, is fraught with myriad challenges and numerous possibilities that require thoughtful consideration and strategic planning.

It is all agreed that the livestock sector plays a vital role in Nigeria’s agricultural economy, providing food nutrition security, income, employment, and acting as a hedge against inflation for many rural households. Despite these contributions, the sector’s potential remains largely underutilised. Factors such as poor management, breeding practices, lack of access to quality feeds and water, disease outbreaks and inadequate veterinary services have consistently hindered growth.

The sector has been facing a lot of significant concerns. Many livestock farmers rely on traditional husbandry and breeding techniques that often result in low-yield offspring. We have not been implementing advanced feeding system, breeding technologies, such as artificial insemination and selective breeding that can help produce high-yield animals with better resistance to diseases.

The sector is suffering from inadequate infrastructure and resources. There are poor road networks, a lack of modern slaughterhouses, milk collection and processing services, very few hatcheries and insufficient storage facilities for livestock products that have hindered efficient operations for generating higher income and consequently the smooth functioning of the sector.

Farmers often struggle with limited market access and inefficient value chains. Middlemen exploit farmers by offering meagre prices for their produce, which discourages further investment in livestock farming. Strengthened market linkages and developed robust value chains that will ensure fair pricing and better returns for farmers are deficient.

Another primary hurdle is the high prevalence of livestock diseases. Foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and Newcastle disease are a few examples that have decimated animal populations and thwarted productivity. Achieving this ambition will require effective disease management protocols, regular vaccination programmes, and enhanced veterinary services to urgently curb some of these menaces.

There is absence of information technology in the sector. The sector has not and needs to embrace modern technology that can present immense possibilities for transforming the sector. Practitioners in the sector are mainly conservative and have not embraced digital platforms that can facilitate information dissemination on best farming practices, disease control, and market prices. Today, there are mobile apps that can help farmers access veterinary services, report disease outbreaks, and receive timely advisories.

The minister’s ambition will be attainable with collaborative efforts between the government and private sector to catalyse growth in the livestock sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can attract investment in infrastructure, research, and development. Encouragement should be given to private enterprises to invest in livestock farming, which can lead to the establishment of high-tech farms, feed mills, and processing facilities.

The capacity of livestock farmers needs to be built through training and extension services. Farmers need to be educated on modern farming techniques, animal health management, and business skills. Establishing training centres and conducting regular workshops can empower farmers with the knowledge and skills needed for efficient livestock production.

Investing in research and innovation will unlock the potential of the livestock sector. Developing disease-resistant breeds, improving feed formulations, and exploring new farming methods can enhance productivity. Collaborating with research institutions and universities can foster innovation and drive the sector forward.

Facilitating access to finance will be a critical enabler for livestock farmers. Many farmers lack the financial resources to invest in quality inputs, infrastructure, and technology. Providing affordable credit facilities, insurance schemes, and grants can help farmers scale up their operations and improve productivity.

The government’s role in providing policy support and advocacy cannot be overstated. Implementing favourable policies, such as tax incentives for livestock farmers, subsidies on inputs, and tariffs on imported livestock products, can stimulate growth. Additionally, effective advocacy can raise awareness about the importance of the livestock sector and attract more stakeholders.

We can also learn from the experiences of other countries and implementing best practices, e.g. Ethiopia’s robust livestock sector that is contributing significantly to its economy. The government implemented a Livestock Master Plan (LMP), that aims to increase meat and milk production, improve animal health services, and enhance market access. The plan focuses on improving genetics, feed, and health services, similar to Nigeria’s goals.

Kenya’s livestock sector, which is vital for its economy, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions was launched as the Kenya Livestock Insurance Program (KLIP) to protect pastoralists from drought-related losses. Additionally, Kenya is investing in disease control, market access, and value addition to boost productivity, aligning with Nigeria’s objectives.

India has one of the largest livestock populations globally and has implemented various schemes to enhance productivity. Their National Livestock Mission (NLM) has focused on sustainable development, improving feed and fodder, and promoting advanced breeding techniques. India’s emphasis on technology and infrastructure development resonates with Nigeria’s ambition.

Brazil, a major player in the global livestock market, particularly in beef production, invested heavily in research and development, advanced breeding techniques, and disease control measures. Brazil’s success in increasing productivity and market access serves as a model for Nigeria’s livestock sector.

Australia’s highly developed livestock sector is focused on export markets. The government supports the sector through research, biosecurity measures, and market development programmes. Australia’s emphasis on quality and sustainability aligns with Nigeria’s goals of improving productivity and mark.

The Minister’s ambitious vision for Nigeria’s livestock sector is both commendable and attainable. By addressing the existing challenges and leveraging the vast possibilities, Nigeria can significantly grow the sector. Collaboration between the government, private sector, farmers, and research institutions is key to driving this transformation.

With concerted efforts and strategic planning, the livestock sector can indeed double its contribution to the GDP and witness an astronomical increase in livestock population and productivity. The journey ahead is demanding, but the rewards are equally promising for a thriving, resilient and prosperous livestock industry in Nigeria.

 

Muhammad FMA2 off Yaya (Petel) Abubakar Road,

Fadamar Mada, Bauchi

Email: masalihu@aol.com