FG, Katsina Partner to Transform 123,000 Hectares into Modern Ranches

The Federal Government and Katsina State have joined forces to turn 123,000 hectares of grazing land into modern ranches and livestock support centres, in a bold push to modernise animal production and open new frontiers for halal meat exports.

Source: Successful Farming

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, announced the initiative during a meeting with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda in Abuja. He commended Katsina’s proactive investments in livestock, including the establishment of Nigeria’s largest goat-rearing farm with over 3,000 goats and the creation of a dedicated state ministry for livestock development.

Maiha said the partnership aims to build modern ranching systems that will enhance productivity, create jobs, and make Katsina a model for sustainable livestock management. “We will work hand-in-hand with the Katsina government to establish world-class ranches and supporting infrastructure capable of transforming the entire livestock value chain,” he assured.

Governor Radda, in his remarks, described the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as a game-changing move for Nigeria’s agricultural future. He reaffirmed Katsina’s readiness to lead the livestock revolution in the North, noting that over 90 percent of the state’s population is engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry.

The governor also revealed plans to establish halal meat processing plants through public-private partnerships, targeting lucrative Middle Eastern markets. “Our vision is to make Katsina the northern hub for halal meat production and export. This initiative will not only create jobs but also attract investors and boost the state’s economy,” Radda said.

Maiha is expected to visit Katsina soon to identify priority sites and finalise the implementation strategy, marking a significant step toward transforming Nigeria’s livestock landscape into a globally competitive enterprise.