Nigeria is stepping up efforts to transform its livestock sector as part of broader plans to strengthen food security and achieve global competitiveness. The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, revealed this during the 2025 Animal Science Meeting and Industry Exposition in Abuja.
Maiha noted that reforming the livestock industry would not only impact Nigeria but also create ripple effects across Africa. However, he emphasized that to achieve meaningful transformation, Nigeria must focus on improving animal breeds while preserving genetic diversity. Despite persistent challenges, the minister maintained that collaboration, innovation, and partnerships could unlock the sector’s vast potential.
The minister highlighted that Nigeria’s livestock assets are valued at over ₦30 trillion, yet contribute less than 3% to the national GDP. He, therefore, urged scientists and stakeholders to “ask the tough questions and find the right answers” to reposition the industry for growth.
The President of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Chief Simeon Ohwofa, stated that the institute has trained thousands of professionals to enhance livestock standards nationwide. He revealed that 252 new Registered Animal Scientists (RAS) and five Associate Animal Scientists (AAS) were inducted after completing rigorous training, bringing NIAS closer to its goal of achieving excellence in animal husbandry.
In his keynote address, Dr. Tunde Amole proposed “Six Strategic Pillars for Transformation” — productivity improvement, feed and fodder security, infrastructure and markets, financing and inclusion, governance and data systems, and climate resilience. He stressed that Nigeria must move “from plans to implementation and from policies to accountability” if it wants to lead the livestock industry in Africa.
He urged the government and private sector to prioritize sustainable practices, improve access to technology, and create viable livestock value chains that empower small and medium-scale producers.
Some of the new inductees, including Dr. Fisayo Ogunsola and Mrs. Nimota Motunrayo, expressed their readiness to contribute to the sector’s growth through research, collaboration, and innovation.
The Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), established in 2008, continues to regulate and advance all aspects of animal husbandry, professional standards, and livestock productivity in Nigeria — a sector now poised for transformative progress under the new ministry.
