Nigeria livestock and dairy sector development

Nigeria has initiated localized efforts to expand its dairy and livestock capacity through state-level investments and national strategic reforms.

In Jigawa State, a ₦7 billion programme was launched to introduce improved cattle breeds from the United Kingdom and India via artificial insemination, with plans to target over 60,000 genetically improved animals. This initiative includes ₦4.5 billion for restoring grazing reserves and training technicians to increase milk output. Concurrently, Ogun State secured a $250 million investment from Pure Dairy Herd to establish Nigeria’s largest dairy farm in Itoro, which is expected to house approximately 10,000 cows.

On a national level, President Bola Tinubu has set a goal to double the livestock sector's economic contribution from $32 billion to over $64 billion. This strategy involves institutional reforms following the 2024 establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed at transforming Nigeria into a regional hub for production and processing while reducing reliance on imports.