Minister Pushes for Creation of Specialized Livestock Colleges

In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has called on the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) to ramp up research and innovation efforts. 

Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of livestock development

Speaking during a meeting with ARCN’s Executive Secretary, Professor Garba Sharubutu, and his team in Abuja, Maiha emphasized the urgent need for dedicated livestock colleges to meet the demands of Nigeria’s growing population. 

He questioned whether the existing agricultural colleges were sufficient and stressed that specialized institutions focused solely on livestock and animal husbandry were critical to the country’s food security and economic development.

Maiha highlighted key areas requiring immediate attention, including breed improvement, disease management, sustainable feeding practices, and fodder development. He revealed that Nigeria has approximately 417 grazing reserves, which are set to be converted into communal ranches to regulate cattle movement and enhance livestock management. 

Stressing the importance of indigenous solutions, the minister urged ARCN to develop locally adapted grass varieties instead of relying on imports. He also challenged researchers to step beyond academic achievements and focus on practical innovations that could lead to patents and industry-driven solutions.

Professor Sharubutu, in response, acknowledged that Nigeria’s current 16 Federal Colleges of Agriculture are insufficient for the nation’s vast population. He noted plans to establish additional colleges, particularly in the South-East, where agricultural institutions are scarce. 

Sharubutu also identified major challenges facing Nigeria’s 16 Agricultural Research Institutes, including inadequate laboratory facilities, insufficient funding, and understaffing. 

He called for stronger government support and collaboration to bridge these gaps and ensure that livestock research and education receive the same level of advancement as crop research.