By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with investors and development agencies to unlock opportunities in Nigeria’s livestock industry and strengthen food security through sustainable sector development.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made the commitment on Monday at a breakfast meeting organised by the Agro-Allied Group of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce in Victoria Island, Lagos, according to AgroNigeria.
Represented at the meeting, Maiha said the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development demonstrates the government’s resolve to transform the livestock sector into a major contributor to economic growth.
The minister said achieving that goal would require stronger collaboration with private investors, research institutions, development partners and international organisations, particularly those from the United States.
Maiha noted that the ministry would support partnerships that encourage technology transfer, build capacity, attract investment, expand market access and promote sustainable livestock production.
He added that the government’s priority is to foster innovation and improve food security through investments capable of delivering long-term economic growth.
The National President of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce, Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, said Nigeria must focus on adding value to its agricultural resources to maximise economic returns and create more jobs.
Balogun said improved logistics and compliance with export standards would enhance agricultural competitiveness, noting that increased productivity could significantly boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product.
Chairman of the chamber’s Agriculture and Agro-Allied Group, Mr Tunde Temowo, described Nigeria’s vast arable land and youthful population as strategic assets that can drive agribusiness growth through stronger Nigeria–United States partnerships.
The United States Agriculture Counsellor at the Foreign Agricultural Service, Dr Christopher Bielecki, identified animal feed production as a key investment opportunity and expressed confidence that deeper bilateral cooperation would strengthen agricultural value addition.
NatureNews notes that sustainable livestock production can reduce pressure on natural resources through improved land management, climate-smart practices and more efficient use of agricultural inputs.
NatureNews reports that stronger public-private partnerships and investment in sustainable livestock systems remain critical to improving food security, enhancing rural livelihoods and building climate-resilient agriculture in Nigeria.
