ASAN Inspires Young Nigerians to See Livestock Farming as the Future of Agriculture

The Abuja Chapter of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN) has taken a bold step to ignite young Nigerians’ passion for livestock farming through an engaging quiz competition designed to inspire a new generation of animal scientists.

Held in the nation’s capital, the event brought together secondary school students eager to test their knowledge of animal science and agriculture. It served as a reminder that the future of Nigeria’s food security lies in the curiosity, innovation, and commitment of its young minds.

ASAN Chairman, Mr. John Taiwo, represented by Dr. Oluchi Agubosi of the University of Abuja, encouraged participants to see animal science as more than a field of study but a gateway to impactful careers that shape the nation’s food systems. He described animal scientists as future innovators who would redefine agriculture with modern technology and creativity.

Dr. Agubosi emphasized that agriculture, particularly animal science, remains the backbone of food security and national survival. She noted that the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development underscores the government’s determination to resolve persistent farmer-herder conflicts and ensure sustainable livestock production.

Director of Ruminants and Monogastric Development at the ministry, Mr. Victor Egbon, reaffirmed this commitment, revealing that the Nigerian Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy aims to rehabilitate abandoned grazing reserves and promote peaceful co-existence among farmers and herders.

The competition climaxed with 15 schools from across the FCT receiving certificates of participation. Government Secondary School, Gwagwalada, claimed the top spot with 65 points and a ₦125,000 cash prize, followed by School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, and Government Secondary School, Dangara, who took second and third place respectively. The event left the students inspired, seeing livestock farming not as old-fashioned labour but as a promising and rewarding career for the future.