The Federal Government and Benue State are joining forces to modernize Nigeria’s livestock sector, drive economic growth, and promote peaceful coexistence.
At the 1st Benue State Livestock Development Summit in Makurdi, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to repositioning the sector as a key economic driver.
He lauded Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s establishment of the Benue State Bureau for Livestock Development, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Nigeria’s livestock industry currently contributes 9% to GDP, valued at $32 billion, with projections to hit $74 billion by 2035.
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The Ministry has digitized grazing routes and plans to regrass 417 grazing reserves, while states are urged to allocate land for pasture production to tap into the $2.09 billion global fodder market. Plans are also underway to establish disease-free zones in Obudu Cattle Ranch and the Mambila Plateau for enhanced meat exports.
Governor Alia emphasized the untapped potential of livestock farming for wealth creation and food security.
He unveiled plans to rehabilitate key livestock facilities, enforce anti-open grazing laws, and introduce “Pasture as a Fodder Crop” in 2025 to boost structured animal farming.
With both governments aligned, Nigeria’s livestock sector is set for structured expansion, positioning the country as a key player in global livestock production.
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