Jega: Modernising Nigeria’s Livestock Sector is a National Emergency

 Former INEC Chairman and Special Adviser to the President on Livestock Reform, Professor Attahiru Jega, has declared the overhaul of Nigeria’s livestock sector as a national imperative, warning that failure to act swiftly could deepen food insecurity, economic stagnation, and rural conflict. Delivering a lecture at the University of Ilorin titled “The Political Economy of Livestock Development in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects”, Jega emphasized the sector's untapped value—estimated at N30 trillion—and its potential to become a powerful engine for growth, peace, and food security.

Source: VON

Jega noted that with Nigeria’s fast-growing population, the demand for animal protein is set to explode. “By 2050,” he stated, “the country will need 253% more poultry, 117% more beef, and a staggering 577% increase in milk to meet local demand.” Without urgent and sustained investment, he warned, Nigeria could face critical protein shortages, increased rural poverty, and mounting conflicts over land and resources.

To drive this transformation, Jega proposed the creation of National Livestock Industrial Zones in each of the six geo-political regions. These zones would include export-grade abattoirs, renewable energy-powered dairy clusters, and integrated leather parks—all aimed at attracting local and international investors. He cited Ethiopia’s Bishoftu Industrial Park as a working model that Nigeria can adapt for its own livestock revolution.

Addressing the long-standing issue of farmer-herder clashes, Jega advocated for the establishment of community-based conflict resolution units managed in partnership with traditional leaders. He cited Botswana’s Tribal Grazing Lands Policy as a successful blueprint, suggesting that Nigeria could reduce these violent conflicts by up to 70% within five years. He also announced plans for a major initiative—Operation Feed Abundance—which would expand the country's feed production capacity, especially in key states like Niger, Benue, and Kaduna.

Jega concluded with a vision for 2030, where open grazing is virtually eliminated and modern livestock farming is the norm. “With strong political will and strategic investment,” he said, “we can end decades of violence, create millions of jobs, and reposition livestock as a pillar of Nigeria’s renewed hope and economic future.” University officials echoed their support for the plan, describing it as aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and critical to tackling the nation's intertwined security and economic challenges.