FG to End Open Livestock Slaughtering with Modern Abattoirs

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through Minister of Livestock Development Idi Maiha, announced plans to eliminate uncontrolled livestock slaughtering as part of efforts to modernize the red meat industry and enhance Nigeria's export potential. During the launch of Olam Agri’s TruValue Cattle Feed in Kaduna, Maiha stated that the government is developing modern abattoirs and will require livestock to pass through feedlots and meet specific standards before slaughter.

Groundbreaking ceremonies for two abattoirs and a mini abattoir in Kwara State have already taken place, with another facility in Abuja capable of processing 1,000 bulls and 3,000 small ruminants daily. The initiative aims to produce quality, traceable meat for both domestic consumption and export.

Maiha emphasized that balanced feed is crucial for livestock productivity and can help mitigate conflicts between farmers and herders. He noted potential buyers for Nigerian red meat from the Gulf, Middle East, and Egypt, urging the country to improve production and quality standards.