Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the transformative potential of Africa’s livestock sector as a catalyst for food security, industrialization, and economic prosperity across the continent. Speaking at the 9th All-Africa Conference on Animal Agriculture in Abuja, Tinubu highlighted the sector’s strategic importance in addressing the challenges of a rapidly growing population and increasing demand for animal protein.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, stated that livestock is not just a nutritional resource but a critical economic asset capable of creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and driving industrial development. He underscored the urgency of repositioning the livestock sector at a time when Africa faces burgeoning demands for food, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
The President outlined his administration’s commitment to agriculture and food security as central components of its Renewed Hope Agenda, noting the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in July 2024 as a testament to this commitment. This ministry’s creation marks the beginning of a comprehensive national livestock transformation program aimed at transitioning livestock production to a modern, technology-driven, and commercially competitive industry.
Tinubu revealed that Nigeria, home to one of Africa’s largest livestock populations, is implementing key reforms based on the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms. These reforms aim to improve governance, productivity, and investment in the sector. The National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy focuses on increasing productivity, strengthening value chains, promoting ranching, and enhancing animal breeding and genetics.
Furthermore, the government is pursuing dairy transformation through improved genetics, nutrition, breeding systems, and infrastructure, with the objective of increasing local production, reducing import dependence, and enhancing national food security. Tinubu also highlighted the significant opportunities the livestock sector presents for young Nigerians and women, urging increased investment in finance, innovation, and value-chain development.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by animal diseases, climate change, and trade barriers, Tinubu called for stronger regional cooperation and harmonization of standards to achieve sustainable livestock transformation. He encouraged delegates to develop practical recommendations aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 to shape Africa’s livestock agenda.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, described Nigeria’s hosting of the conference as a major achievement, emphasizing the timeliness of its theme in addressing climate change, population growth, and food security challenges. Maiha advocated for regional collaboration, harmonization of standards, and increased investment to build a modern livestock economy and position Africa competitively in international markets.
Prof. Mizeck Chagunda, Interim President of the All-Africa Society of Animal Production, urged collaboration among stakeholders to achieve meaningful transformation in the livestock sector. He announced plans to establish a permanent home for the society and recognize significant contributions to livestock development through the African Livestock Changemakers Awards.
Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Livestock Development, welcomed delegates and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing livestock development through knowledge exchange and partnership strengthening.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Chris Bielecki from the U.S. Department of Agriculture highlighted the United States’ commitment to supporting Africa’s livestock sector through commercial partnerships, training, and investment, underscoring shared interests in expanding agricultural production and strengthening capacity in Nigeria.
The conference, as reported by NAN, brings together a diverse group of stakeholders to discuss strategies for repositioning animal agriculture for food security and global competitiveness.