The Nigerian Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) Plc, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, has launched a Feedlot Management Training Program aimed at positioning Nigeria as a major supplier of quality beef to both domestic and global markets.
This initiative follows the landmark $2.5 billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) deal secured by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with global meatpacking giant, JBS.
Under the agreement, six ultra-modern meat processing plants are to be constructed across Nigeria two of which will be dedicated exclusively to beef.
The resulting increase in demand for premium livestock feedstock has created a critical opportunity for local producers to scale their operations for export readiness.
The first phase of the training, held in Abuja, drew participants from across the livestock value chain, including the Ministry of Livestock Development, the Agricultural Department of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors & Marketers of Nigeria (NACDPMAN), the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN), Maidoki Farms Ltd, and others.
Speaking at the launch, NIRSAL’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Sa’ad Hamidu, stated that the training program is more than a routine exercise, it is a deliberate, strategic intervention focused on building bankable agribusinesses.
The program seeks to improve feed formulation techniques, reduce input waste, and optimize livestock finishing cycles to boost the market value of Nigerian beef.
“This is not just another training; it is a targeted intervention aimed at creating bankable agribusinesses. As it is, we are preparing Nigerian livestock producers to feed not just the nation, but the world,” he said, stressing the program’s alignment with the Federal Government’s goal of an agriculturally empowered, export-driven economy.
Participants welcomed the initiative. Shekamang Ayuba, Director of Ranch and Pastoral Resources Development at the Ministry of Livestock Development, who also took part in the training, described it as “eye-opening and apt,” and called for its nationwide rollout.
Although the JBS deal stands out as a milestone, it is only one of several investments flowing into Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Local firms like ABIS Group are also increasing their stakes in meat processing and value chain development adding momentum to the shift toward modern, high-value livestock production in the country.
Furthermore, NIRSAL’s Feedlot Management Training Program is designed to address longstanding challenges in the sector, including outdated production practices, low-quality feed, and limited access to finance.
Through technical training, strategic partnerships, end-to-end value chain support, and risk-sharing incentives for lenders, the program aims to unlock the sector’s full potential and establish Nigeria as a competitive player in the global beef market.
