By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Government, in partnership with the Alternative Bank and Plateau State University (PLASU), has launched the cultivation of alfalfa in Plateau State as part of efforts to address livestock feed shortages and mitigate farmer-herder conflicts across Nigeria.
The launch, which took place recently at the university campus in Bokkos, marks the first major trial of alfalfa in Nigeria. Stakeholders say the high-yield, drought-tolerant forage crop has the potential to transform animal nutrition and livestock production, especially in temperate zones like Plateau.
Speaking at the event, Gbenga Awe, Group Head of Structured Trade and Commodities Finance at the Alternative Bank, said the initiative aligns with the bank’s non-interest finance model that targets projects with economic and social impact.
“We’re not just growing alfalfa; we’re building a sustainable ecosystem,” Awe said. “With a projected yield of 10 tons per hectare, this effort supports both farmers and pastoralists with long-term benefits.”
Vice Chancellor of PLASU, Prof. Shedrach Gaya Best, described Bokkos as an ideal site for the initiative, citing its long livestock history and recent investments in water infrastructure to support the trial.
“We’ve had a dairy farm here since the colonial era,” he said. “The university is committed to continuing that legacy by leading innovation in animal feed systems.”
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Richard Mark Mbaram, Special Adviser to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, said the initiative demonstrates how strategic crop choices can address deeper social and environmental challenges.
“This isn’t just about feed,” Mbaram said. “It’s about reducing pastoral migration, preventing conflict, and supporting climate resilience.”
Alex Amos, a potato farmer near Lamingo Dam in Jos, said he would consider alfalfa cultivation once seeds become available.
“The issue is not just the crop quality, it’s whether people will buy it,” Amos said. “If there’s demand, I’ll try it.”
Ene Ameh, a wheat farmer in Dwei-Du, said she had not previously considered growing feed crops but is now open to the idea.
The initiative stems from early adaptability trials carried out by PLASU’s Faculty of Agriculture. Dean of the faculty, Dr. Hosea Finangwai, explained that alfalfa was imported from Kenya due to similarities in climate with parts of Plateau. Initial efforts in other areas of the state failed due to unsuitable growing conditions.
“We’re now scaling up to assess seed yield and crop performance,” Finangwai said. “If successful, this could expand access to affordable, high-protein feed nationwide.”
