Experts Urge Greater Investment in Livestock to Strengthen Nigeria’s Food Security

Agricultural experts have warned that Nigeria’s focus on crop production alone will not guarantee food security unless equal attention is given to livestock development. Speaking at the maiden Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN) Week and World Egg Day celebration in Benin City, the Edo State Chairman of ASAN, Peter Uadia Aikhuomogbe, called for a more balanced investment approach that integrates both crop and animal agriculture.

Source:BusinessDay

Aikhuomogbe, a retired Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Ministry of Agriculture and Food, stressed that neglecting the livestock sector undermines national food stability and economic growth. He explained that while governments at various levels continue to channel resources into crop production and technology dissemination, livestock — a key source of protein and livelihood for millions — remains underfunded. “The livestock subsector holds the key to ensuring food security and creating sustainable jobs,” he said.

He highlighted that livestock production faces multiple challenges, including the rising cost of feed, disease outbreaks, and the growing threat of climate change. These issues, he said, cannot be solved in isolation. “Researchers, farmers, and policymakers must work hand in hand. The academic cannot solve these challenges from the lab alone, the farmer cannot tackle them from the field alone, and the government cannot regulate from the office without collaboration,” Aikhuomogbe emphasized.

The event’s theme, “From Lab to Farm: Forging a Stronger Handshake Between Animal Science Academia and Public Service for a Thriving Livestock Sector,” focused on bridging the communication gap between scientists, policymakers, and farmers. Aikhuomogbe explained that many innovative solutions developed in research institutions rarely reach farmers who need them most. “We are here to strengthen that handshake — to connect research with practice, and policy with action,” he declared.

Acting Provost of the Edo State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Andrew Omosefe, praised the association’s efforts to unite stakeholders toward sustainable livestock growth, noting that the initiative aligns with the Edo State Government’s SHINE Agenda for agricultural transformation. The event also featured lectures on climate-smart livestock production, animal health, and biosecurity, aimed at equipping farmers with modern tools to improve productivity.

The ceremony ended with awards recognizing outstanding contributors to livestock innovation, including FEM Farms Managing Director Francis Uujamhen, named Industry Champion, and Animal Healthcare Centre’s David Bamigboye, honored as Young Agro Innovator.