The Minister of Livestock Development, Alh. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has hosted the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Richard M. Mills, Jr., and his delegation, to discuss ways of enhancing collaboration for the development of Nigeria’s livestock sector.
The visit, according to a statement signed by Ben. Bem Goong, Director, Information and Public Relations Department of the ministry and obtained by AgroNigeria, marked an important step in strengthening the long-standing ties between Nigeria and the United States while fostering economic growth and food security.
Speaking, His Excellency Richard M. Mills, Jr. highlighted the United States’ commitment to building commercial trade relationships between Nigerian livestock producers and U.S. food exporters.
He announced plans to support 25 Nigerian exporters and livestock professionals in attending the world’s largest industrial food processing expo in Atlanta in January, 2025.
The three-day event will connect Nigerian stakeholders with global livestock experts, offering opportunities to establish business partnerships and advance best practices in livestock management.
The US Ambassador further emphasised the vital role of livestock in addressing food insecurity and fostering trade while alleviating tensions between farmers and herders. “Collaboration in areas such as breed improvement, food processing, and technology adoption can unlock the immense potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Minister expressed the Federal Government’s dedication to transforming the sector into a globally competitive and sustainable industry.
He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of modernising livestock management to create jobs, drive economic growth, and ensure food security.
Maiha outlined strategic priorities for the Ministry, including modernising Nigeria’s 417 grazing reserves with essential infrastructure such as water, schools, clinics, markets, and abattoirs.
He disclosed plans to improve breed performance, enhance veterinary services, and adopt advanced technology like cattle tagging and traceability systems to tackle challenges such as cattle rustling.
“Your Excellency, it is our desire to make full utilisation of the 417 grazing reserves we have in this country. By this, we want to see to the re-grazing of those areas, getting all the necessary inputs in terms of rangeland, pasture, water, and also having infrastructure for the comfort of the animals and the herders’ families,” Maiha stated.
The Minister also called for increased collaboration in research and development to boost vaccine production, animal healthcare, and productivity across the livestock value chain.
He welcomed the United States’ offer to facilitate capacity-building exchange programs for Nigerian professionals, enabling them to adopt global best practices tailored to local needs.
