SARI Webinar Calls for Data-Driven Approach to Boost Nigeria’s Indigenous Livestock Productivity

The Society for Animal Reproduction and Improvement (SARI) has called for urgent measures to improve the accuracy, accessibility, and application of reproductive data for Nigeria’s indigenous and adapted livestock breeds. The call came during the inaugural edition of its monthly webinar series, REPROTALK #1, held virtually via Google Meet on July 26, 2025.

Themed “Protocols and Parameters: Are We Getting the Right Reproductive Data from Our Indigenous/Adapted Livestock Breeds?”, the session drew about 100 participants, including researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers. Lead presentations were delivered by Dr. Solomon Olorunleke of the FAO Nigeria Office and Mr. Olawole Olagbaju of Real People Concept, with several participants contributing to the lively discussions.

Speakers noted that most animal reproduction studies conducted in Nigeria rely on small sample sizes, a limitation that often leads to inconsistent findings and widely varying conclusions. They also lamented the absence of a centralized data storage and retrieval system, which leaves valuable research results scattered and inaccessible. Another concern raised was the routine application of reproductive protocols designed for exotic breeds to local livestock without proper validation, a practice that may compromise breeding outcomes.

In response to these challenges, the webinar emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between researchers and farmers to produce large-scale, reliable data that can better inform breeding practices. Participants also underscored the importance of developing a digital platform to store and share reproductive information, as well as creating a gene bank to preserve the reproductive genetics of indigenous breeds for future improvement and selection.

The meeting further urged the Nigerian government to adopt a cautious approach to importing foreign livestock genetics, stressing that local breeds—already adapted to the country’s environmental conditions—should be prioritized for breeding and improvement. SARI reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the reproductive and productive potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector, positioning it as a driver of food security, economic growth, and resilience in the face of climate challenges.