Nigeria Enhances Livestock Genetic Conservation Protocols

The Federal Government of Nigeria is strengthening livestock genetic conservation with unified national protocols aimed at enhancing the characterization, inventory, and monitoring of animal genetic resources. A workshop from April 28 to May 5, 2026, in Abuja, organized by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, brought together genetic experts, researchers, policymakers, livestock breeders, and private sector representatives to review and validate these protocols.

The workshop endorsed proposals for a Nigerian domestic animal diversity information system, including a dashboard to support data analytics for breed monitoring. Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, emphasized the urgent need for harmonized protocols to strengthen Nigeria's livestock breeding conservation system.

Dr. Hussein Gadain from FAO reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting Nigeria's livestock transformation agenda. The workshop concluded with an agreement on a timeline for implementing the protocols by the end of the year, covering community advocacy and data collection.