Federal Ministry of Livestock Development - FMLD

08/06/2026

Nigeria, Denmark Sign New Livestock Cooperation Pact

The Nigerian Government and the Kingdom of Denmark have reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing sustainable livestock development, food safety, animal health, and agricultural innovation through the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) for Phase II of the Strategic Sector Cooperation (SSC) Programme in Livestock Production.

The LoI, signed on Sunday 7th, 2026, in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Danish Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, is a strategic instrument for accelerating livestock transformation, improving food and nutrition security, strengthening disease prevention systems, and building a more resilient and globally competitive livestock sector.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the signing as “a reaffirmation of a partnership that has evolved into a model of international cooperation and a renewed commitment to delivering measurable outcomes for livestock producers, regulators, processors, and consumers.”

The Minister noted that the partnership has already delivered substantial gains, including the training of over 100 Nigerian officials in critical areas such as food and feed safety management, animal disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance control, climate adaptation, and veterinary regulation.

He further announced the commencement of a joint antimicrobial resistance pilot programme in Oyo and Kano States as a practical outcome of the collaboration.

Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, noted that Phase II will transition from institutional strengthening to implementation, focusing on field-based interventions, disease prevention, biosecurity, surveillance systems, and direct support to farmers and livestock value chains.

Also speaking, Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Eva Edwards, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening cooperation on feed management, food safety, traceability systems, veterinary drug regulation, and data sharing to ensure sustainable and resilient food safety systems.

Representing the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, Project Manager Alex Sigersen, commended the commitment demonstrated by Nigerian institutions and stakeholders, expressing confidence that the next phase of the programme would translate technical cooperation into tangible benefits for farmers, communities, and the livestock industry.

The ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, Directors and senior officials of the Ministry, representatives of NAFDAC, and senior officials from the Danish Embassy and the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration.

06/06/2026

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06/06/2026

It's a wrap: Stakeholders engage in technical sessions during *Day 2* of the Inception Workshop on Strengthening HPAI Preparedness, Detection and Response in Nigeria, organised by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

05/06/2026

FG Targets 7,000 Jobs Through Ranching - Mukhtar

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to create approximately 7,000 direct jobs through an estate-based ranching programme designed to empower youths and women, boost livestock productivity, and accelerate rural economic development across the country.

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this during a strategic engagement with the management team of Access Bank Plc in Abuja on Thursday, June 4, 2026, where he highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ministry to transform the livestock sector into a major driver of economic growth, food security and employment generation.

According to the Minister, the proposed estate-based livestock management model will provide structured opportunities for young people and women to participate in ranch operations and other livestock-related enterprises, while contributing to the development of modern and sustainable livestock production systems.

“The programme is projected to create about 7,000 direct jobs while supporting growth across the dairy, red meat and leather value chains,” Mukhtar stated.

He explained that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to unlock the enormous economic potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry, particularly in dairy production, meat processing, feed and fodder development, and leather manufacturing.

The Minister also underscored the need for innovative financing mechanisms tailored to the realities of livestock production, particularly dairy farming, which requires longer production cycles before yielding returns.

He noted that the dairy industry alone holds the potential to generate billions of dollars in economic value, stressing the need for stronger collaboration among government, financial institutions and private investors to expand production and modernize the sector.

As part of efforts to improve livestock infrastructure, Mukhtar revealed that the Ministry is pursuing the establishment of modern abattoirs across selected states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The facilities, each with the capacity to process at least 1,000 cattle daily, are expected to improve meat quality and safety standards, reduce waste, and strengthen the livestock value chain.

The Minister also stressed the importance of feed and fodder development, describing animal nutrition as a critical determinant of livestock productivity. To address this challenge, the Ministry is working to expand pasture cultivation nationwide and establish feed resources closer to production centres in order to reduce transportation costs and improve efficiency.

Earlier, the Public Relations Manager, Access Bank, Jonathan Oloniyo, expressed readiness to collaborate with the Ministry in advancing initiatives that will unlock the vast potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry.

04/06/2026

FG, FAO Launch New Initiative to Combat Avian Influenza in Nigeria

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and strengthening Nigeria’s animal health systems as stakeholders gathered for the Inception Workshop of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) Project on Strengthening HPAI Preparedness, Detection and Response in Nigeria.

The two-day workshop brings together experts from government institutions, academia, professional associations and development partners to develop practical measures for preventing, detecting and responding effectively to HPAI outbreaks across Nigeria.

Declaring the workshop open in Karu, Nasarawa State, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the poultry industry as a critical component of Nigeria’s livestock sector, contributing significantly to food security, employment generation and economic growth.

“The poultry industry remains a critical component of Nigeria’s livestock sector. However, it continues to face threats from transboundary animal diseases, particularly Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, which has remained a recurring challenge since its first occurrence in Nigeria in 2006,” the Minister said.

Mukhtar noted that the resurgence of the disease since 2021 has continued to threaten livelihoods, food security and international trade, affecting smallholder, medium-scale and commercial poultry farmers alike.

“We are concerned because of the destructive effect of avian influenza in Nigeria. It is threatening livelihoods, threatening food security and threatening international trade. We must work together to restore livelihoods, close gaps in poultry product supply and reconnect our poultry industry to international markets,” he stated.

The Minister commended FAO for approving and funding the project with USD 350,000, describing the intervention as timely and aligned with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening disease prevention and control within the livestock sector.

He added that the project would improve surveillance, laboratory diagnostic capacity, risk communication and stakeholder coordination under the One Health framework.

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, who was represented by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, appreciated FAO for its support and observed that despite progress in disease control, Nigeria has continued to record HPAI outbreaks annually since 2021.

“The epidemiology of the disease has evolved, with outbreaks now affecting multiple avian species. Layer farms remain the most severely impacted segment, resulting in substantial economic losses and disruptions across poultry value chains,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the FAO, Dr. Otto Muhinda reaffirmed the Organisation’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen animal health systems and combat transboundary animal diseases.

“FAO is proud to partner with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and other stakeholders in building a more resilient poultry sector. Through this project, we aim to enhance Nigeria’s capacity for early detection, preparedness and rapid response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, thereby protecting livelihoods, food security and public health.

"Over the next nine months, the project will train 240 animal health personnel, contributing to a stronger frontline workforce capable of preventing and responding to disease outbreaks. It will also support the development of predictive tools to improve preparedness and reduce future risks of HPAI in Nigeria,” he said.

In goodwill messages, Dr. Patience Omokri, representing the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), stressed the strategic link between public health and national security, noting that effective biosecurity measures, cross-border collaboration and public awareness are critical to preventing and managing disease outbreaks.

Representing the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), Prof. Matthew Adamu reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to strengthening animal health systems and supporting veterinary professionals in advancing livestock development and disease control efforts across the country.

The President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr. Moses Arokoyo, pledged the Association’s continued support through advocacy, awareness creation and professional engagement, describing the project as a significant step towards securing the future of Nigeria’s poultry industry.

Also speaking, Ahmed Dareey, representing the Chief Epidemiologist of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation and resource-sharing in strengthening health security and achieving sustainable disease prevention and control outcomes under the One Health approach.

Similarly, Rita Azuka, representing the Federal Ministry of Environment, highlighted the environmental dimensions of HPAI control, stressing the need for improved waste management, environmental surveillance and ecosystem protection as part of a coordinated response to disease outbreaks.

In 2026 alone, Nigeria has recorded confirmed outbreaks of HPAI in Kebbi, Kano, Katsina, Plateau and Bauchi States, underscoring the persistent threat the disease poses to the country's poultry industry, food security and livelihoods.

In response, the FAO-supported intervention will focus on seven pilot states across the country, where efforts will be intensified to strengthen disease surveillance, improve laboratory diagnostic capacity, enhance biosecurity measures, promote risk communication and bolster rapid response mechanisms.

The pilot programme is expected to generate lessons and best practices that can be scaled up nationwide to strengthen Nigeria's preparedness and resilience against future HPAI outbreaks.

04/06/2026

Livestock Ministry Eyes Zero-Waste Partnership With Greenfield

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has expressed its readiness to partner with Greenfield Feedlots and Packaging Company to drive livestock production, create jobs, enhance food security, and promote a zero-slaughter-waste economy in Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, gave the assurance when he received a delegation from Greenfield Feedlots and Packaging Company, led by Ahmed Al-Mustapha, OFR, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry in Abuja on Wednesday 3rd June, 2026.

Commending the team for bringing together experienced professionals, technical experts, and visionary investors, the Minister emphasised the immense economic potential of the livestock industry, noting that virtually every component of an animal can be utilised for productive purposes.

"In the livestock sector, nothing is wasted. Faeces, horns, bones, blood, hides, skins, and other by-products all have economic value and can be processed into useful products," the Minister stated.

Drawing lessons from global industry leaders, Mukhtar cited the remarkable growth of JBS in Brazil, which began as a modest meat-processing enterprise and has grown into one of the world's largest meat companies.

"JBS today generates about 74 billion dollars annually. Their success story demonstrates the enormous opportunities that exist within the livestock value chain. They started small, with a vision, and today they are a global leader in red meat production.

"There are enormous opportunities across the livestock value chain. A detailed presentation will enable us to understand what you can do, what support you require, and where strategic partnerships can be established for mutual benefit," he stated.

Earlier, the Secretary of the delegation, Ibrahim Danbauchi, said the visit was aimed at introducing the company to the Ministry and exploring opportunities for collaboration in developing a modern livestock processing and packaging enterprise capable of generating revenue and creating employment opportunities.

Danbauchi outlined the company's requests, which include strategic partnership, policy support, expedited approvals, and assistance in connecting with international technical and financial partners.

According to him, the proposed project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, increase government revenue through taxation, promote environmental sustainability through a zero-waste model, strengthen Nigeria's livestock value chain, and position the country to tap into the rapidly expanding global halal meat market.

The meeting was attended by Directors, Deputy Directors, Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister and other senior officials of the Ministry.

04/06/2026

Nigeria Eyes Climate Finance for Livestock Transformation

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to position Nigeria's livestock sector to access global climate finance as part of its broader strategy to drive sustainable livestock development, enhance food security, create jobs, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this on Wednesday 3rd June, 2026, while receiving a delegation from the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in Abuja.

The Minister said climate change remains one of the greatest threats to livestock production and rural livelihoods, stressing that Nigeria must take deliberate steps to build resilience within the sector while taking advantage of available international climate funding opportunities.

Drawing from over two decades of experience as a livestock farmer, Mukhtar noted that the effects of climate change are already evident across the country, including declining water availability, changing rainfall patterns, increased heat stress on livestock, and shrinking pasture resources.

"There is no doubt that climate change is real. The changes are visible in our rivers, grazing lands, water tables, and livestock production systems. As a nation, we must act responsibly to protect the environment while transforming our livestock sector into a modern, climate-smart industry," he said.

The Minister explained that the Ministry is pursuing the rehabilitation of grazing reserves, expansion of fodder cultivation, improved rangeland management, adoption of renewable energy solutions, and the promotion of settled livestock production systems as part of efforts to reduce environmental degradation and improve productivity.

He further reiterated the Ministry's commitment to collaborating with local and international partners to develop bankable projects capable of attracting climate finance for livestock development.

Earlier, the Director of Technical Services at AGNES, Dr. David Olufemi Awolala, informed the Minister that AGNES, with support from GIZ, is working with the Ministry's Technical Working Group on Climate Change to develop investment-ready proposals in feeds and fodder development, livestock value chain enhancement, and animal health systems.

He noted that the proposals are targeted at attracting funding from major international climate financing windows, including the Green Climate Fund, African Development Bank, and other global climate investment facilities.

The delegation also briefed the Minister on plans to strengthen the Ministry's capacity to access climate finance and implement sustainable livestock development initiatives that align with Nigeria's climate commitments and development priorities.

The meeting had in attendance senior officials of the Ministry, other representatives of AGNES, Mr. Adeoye Adekunle Afees of GIZ, as well as members of the Ministry’s Technical Working Group on Climate Change, led by Dr. Peter Alike.

02/06/2026

World MILK Day 2026: FG to Feminise Livestock Value Chains, Empower 37,000 Women and Youth - Mukhtar

The Federal Government has announced plans to deliberately expand the participation of women across livestock value chains as part of efforts to transform Nigeria's dairy industry and accelerate economic opportunities for women and youth.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this while delivering his keynote address at the 2026 World Milk Day Conference held in Abuja, where stakeholders gathered to celebrate this year's theme, "Celebrating Women's Dairy Farmers: Promoting Fresh Milk Consumption for a Healthy Nation."

"There is going to be a deliberate effort by the Ministry. From dairy to poultry, piggery, rabbitry, beekeeping, beef production and fodder development, there should be a deliberate attempt to feminise all these value chains," the Minister stated.

He noted that women remain central to milk production, processing, storage and marketing, stressing that the future of Nigeria's dairy industry depends on empowering them with modern technologies, skills and access to markets.

"No meaningful transformation of the dairy sector can occur without the inclusion and empowerment of women. We are committed to creating greater opportunities for women and youth through dairy cooperatives, skills development, milk aggregation systems, value addition and enterprise support initiatives.

"Improving the productivity of women dairy farmers requires more than policy statements. It requires deliberate investment in infrastructure, training, financing, technology, market access and inclusion within decision-making structures across the dairy value chain," he added.
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Mukhtar further reiterated that the Ministry is advancing plans for a Women and Youth in Livestock Empowerment Initiative, designed to create economic opportunities for over 37,000 women and youth through skills development, enterprise incubation, cooperative strengthening, access to finance, technology transfer and market integration.

He also unveiled the National Dairy Policy Implementation Framework as a roadmap for accelerating local milk production and attracting investment into the sector; and disclosed plans to establish women-led milk aggregation and processing cooperatives to strengthen local value addition and improve access to processors and off-takers.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, represented by the Director of Ruminant and Monogastrics Development, Mr. Victor Egbon, noted that beyond its nutritional value, milk remains a critical driver of economic opportunity and sustainable livelihoods for millions of people around the world.
"For Nigeria, this conversation is particularly important because the dairy sector represents not only a nutrition imperative but also a strategic economic opportunity capable of generating employment, improving household incomes and strengthening food security," she stated.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Livestock Development, Idris Ajimobi, commended the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development for its efforts in advancing Nigeria’s livestock and dairy sector, describing ongoing initiatives as vital to national growth and food security.

He emphasised that efforts to transform the livestock sector must prioritise increased local milk production and encourage greater consumption of fresh, locally produced dairy products.

In his goodwill message, National President of the Commercial Dairy Ranchers Association of Nigeria (CODARAN), M.D. Abubakar, emphasised the need to ensure that backward integration policies translate into measurable import substitution outcomes, warning that any programme that fails to achieve this objective amounts to “efforts without results.”

He further called for sustained collaboration to build a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria through an optimally productive and competitive dairy value chain, wishing stakeholders continued progress and success in the sector.

Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of Promasidor Nigeria, Mr. François Gillet, reaffirmed the company's commitment to advancing Nigeria's dairy sector through sustainable local production and investment.

He disclosed that Promasidor operates one of the country's largest dairy farms, spanning over 500 hectares with more than 750 cattle producing fresh milk daily, while indirectly supporting about 1,000 jobs.

Gillet commended the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and industry stakeholders for their efforts in transforming the sector and called for continued support for dairy farmers, particularly women, while promoting fresh milk consumption to improve national nutrition outcomes.

Also speaking, the Country Representative and Political Director of Propcom+, Dr. Adiya Ode, congratulated stakeholders and women dairy farmers on the occasion of World Milk Day, noting that milk is increasingly becoming central to national conversations around nutrition and food security.

She urged stakeholders to pay greater attention to critical issues such as infrastructure development, feed availability and genetic improvement to unlock the full potential of Nigeria's dairy industry.

Similarly, the Director-General of the Nigeria Agribusiness Group (NABG), represented at the event by the Communications and Engagement Officer, Ibrahim Faskari Kabir, described this year's theme as particularly significant because it recognises the indispensable contributions of women who form the backbone of dairy production, processing, marketing and household nutrition across rural communities.

He also highlighted the organisation's support for the development of the Dairy Policy Implementation Framework, describing it as a strategic roadmap for increasing local milk production, improving competitiveness, attracting investment and fostering sustainable growth.

The event recorded strong stakeholder participation, with representatives drawn from the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Food Security; Industry, Trade and Investment; the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI); the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency; Sahel Consulting; Nestlé Nigeria; USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Lagos; the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee, and exhibitors among others.

01/06/2026