The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector with the launch of a three-day national capacity-building workshop designed to upgrade the technical skills of Livestock Extension Officers across all 36 states and the FCT.
Speaking at the opening session in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD), Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, represented by the Director of Livestock Extension and Business Development, Mr. Joseph Ako reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to building a structured, commercially driven livestock industry that enhances food security, deepens economic diversification, and improves farmer livelihoods.
Dr. Akujobi described livestock extension officers as the “lifeblood of the transformation agenda,” emphasising that their ability to translate national policies into practical, accurate advisory services will determine the success of Nigeria’s livestock development strategy.
In his remarks earlier, Mr. Ako welcomed participants and urged them to take full advantage of the training, noting that improved competencies at the extension level will significantly influence the productivity and resilience of livestock farmers nationwide.
The initiative forms a core component of the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NLGAS), which identifies extension services as a critical driver of modern production systems, improved productivity, and sustainable animal management practices across the country.
Over the three days, officers will receive intensive training in Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP), animal welfare, nutrition and feed management, animal health and disease control, biosecurity, waste management, and One Health principles. Other focus areas include breeding and reproduction, record keeping, livestock housing and humane handling, as well as effective extension communication and participatory methods.
