As part of efforts to ensure sustainable growth in Nigeria’s livestock sector, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has undertaken a nationwide study to establish a reliable data foundation for decision making.
The exercise is designed to provide a picture of the current state of the industry, using 67 carefully selected indicators to track performance and guide future investments. It is expected to support more informed policies while improving coordination across the sector.
Field activities for the study were carried out between April 20 and 24, 2026, using a combination of data collection methods. Existing records were reviewed alongside consultations with stakeholders through group discussions and targeted interviews, allowing for both numerical analysis and practical insights from industry participants.
The study engaged stakeholders across the livestock ecosystem, including farmers, pastoralists, ranch managers, processors, traders, input suppliers, service providers, and representatives of government and regulatory institutions. Their contributions offered a balanced perspective on the realities and challenges within the sector.
Discussions held during the fieldwork highlighted key issues affecting production, access to markets, and overall efficiency. Interviews with senior officials, technical experts, and private sector leaders further enriched the findings with institutional and policy level perspectives.
To capture the diversity of livestock production across the country, the exercise was conducted in six states representing different geographic zones and production systems. This approach ensured that variations in practices and conditions were adequately reflected.
The assessment also examined the sector as an interconnected system, covering cattle production for both meat and milk, poultry operations, small ruminants, piggery, and emerging livestock segments. It extended to critical support services such as veterinary care, feed supply, transportation, and market infrastructure.
Findings from the study are expected to be released in the coming weeks and will serve as a benchmark for measuring progress over time. Officials say the results will help shape targeted interventions aimed at improving productivity, enhancing food security, and expanding economic opportunities.
