Nigeria's Private Sector Targets $3 Billion Livestock Growth

The private sector in Nigeria is targeting a $3 billion expansion of the livestock market over the next three to five years, driven by a consensus among government and industry players on the need for urgent reforms to address long-standing structural bottlenecks. This investment drive was a focal point at a high-level forum in Abuja, organized by the African Union's Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources and supported by the Gates Foundation.

Shekamang Ayuba, Director of Livestock Extension and Business Development at the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, highlighted Nigeria's position as West Africa's largest livestock population holder, with 54 million cattle and 250 million poultry birds. Despite this, Nigeria imports 60% of its dairy needs, indicating inefficiencies in the value chain.

The initiative aims to develop a comprehensive livestock master plan, supported by a $500 million World Bank program launched in 2022, to improve productivity and commercial viability across 20 states, benefiting 1.43 million people, including at least 30% women.