Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the livestock sector through increased investments in dairy production, farmer empowerment, and innovative approaches aimed at driving sustainable growth.
The President made the announcement during the commissioning of Arla-Dano’s new yoghurt factory in Kaduna, describing the facility as a model of partnership between government and the private sector.
Represented by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the President praised Arla Foods for its sustained investments in Nigeria’s dairy industry and its contribution to rural employment and local capacity building.
He said the company’s commitment to local sourcing and farmer training aligns with the goals of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to create jobs, enhance nutrition, and reduce poverty through agricultural transformation.
“Behind every glass of milk lies the hard work of farmers, professionals, and support systems that keep the industry moving,” President Tinubu said. “They deserve recognition and continuous support. Our government will stand with investors like Arla Foods to ensure Nigeria produces more and imports less.”
The President reiterated that the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) reflects his administration’s determination to modernize the livestock sector and turn it into a globally competitive enterprise.
He noted that 18 states have already adopted livestock development initiatives to advance food security and generate employment.
According to him, the new ministry is working to create a business-friendly environment for both international and local investors, including easier access to land through state governments and clear regulatory pathways for new projects.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Abdulkadir Mua’zu Meyere, highlighted that over half of Kaduna’s workforce is employed in agriculture.
He said the state had set aside more than ten percent of its 2025 budget to strengthen agricultural productivity and support private investments such as Arla-Dano’s operations.
Arla Foods Nigeria’s Managing Director, Mr. Peder Petersen, said the Open Day event aimed to encourage knowledge exchange among farmers, industry partners, and academics to enhance dairy productivity and sustainability.
Representatives from the United Nations, the Danish Embassy, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and other key agricultural stakeholders attended the ceremony.
