The Federal Government and 10 states have agreed to collaborate on reforms aimed at improving livestock production and reducing farmer-herder conflicts across Nigeria.
Read also: Nigeria pushes ‘Nigeria First Policy’ to unlock $1trn economy target by 2030
Stakeholder commitments
At a two-day meeting organised by the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) with support from the World Bank, states including Kogi, Benue, Gombe, Bauchi, Borno, and Plateau pledged to provide land and logistics for livestock development. The initiative will focus on commercial pasture production and technology adoption to address water and pasture shortages, key triggers of farmer-herder clashes.
Read also: Yobe partners with PEBEC on SABER reforms to improve business environment
Investment and infrastructure
Kogi State Commissioner for Livestock, Olufemi Bolarin, said the state has started producing pasture at scale and is inviting private investors. “We are offering land and infrastructure support to promote livestock production,” he said.
Special Adviser Ishiaq Bello, representing the Minister of Livestock Development, called for the revival of past livestock projects. He urged financial institutions to provide low-interest loans to farmers.
Read also: West Africa eyes $200 bn growth with push for borderless trade and travel
Economic and social impact
Stakeholders noted that sustainable livestock management is critical for food production, social stability, and climate resilience. The project is expected to attract investment and create opportunities across the livestock value chain.
