FG Secures $2.5bn Investment to Revolutionise Nigeria’s Dairy and Meat Industry

Nigeria’s dairy and meat industry is set for a major transformation as President Bola Tinubu announced a $2.5 billion investment commitment to establish six world-class meat-processing factories across the country within the next five years. The facilities — spanning poultry, beef, and pork production — are expected to boost food security, create jobs, and reduce the nation’s reliance on imports.

Source:ruminants

Speaking at the Arla-Dano Open Day in Kaduna State, Tinubu described the investment as a decisive step toward unlocking Nigeria’s livestock potential. He expressed concern that despite being richly endowed with cattle, the nation still spends about $1.5 billion annually importing milk and dairy products. “It is a paradox we must correct,” he said, noting that the partnership with JBS, the world’s largest meat-processing company, will also provide technical support to Nigerian producers.

Tinubu highlighted the stark productivity gap in local milk production, revealing that Nigeria produces just 0.7 million litres annually — far below what is needed to meet domestic demand. He lamented that indigenous cows yield less than 2 litres of milk per day, compared to the global average of 6.6 litres, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the sector through innovation, investment, and policy reforms.

He praised the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as a strategic move to strengthen the livestock value chain, reduce import dependence, and promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders. According to him, projects like the Arla Farm in Damau reflect the government’s vision of modern, self-sustaining livestock systems that deliver prosperity to rural communities.

The President commended Kaduna State’s efforts in transforming Damau into Nigeria’s leading dairy hub, hosting initiatives such as the Damau Household Milk Farm and Dairy Development Projects. Supported by the Danish government, these projects are equipping local farmers with improved breeds, better feed systems, and access to stable markets through Arla Foods as the primary off-taker.

Tinubu also noted that ongoing international collaborations, including the EU-funded €18.3 million VACE TARED Project and the FAO-supported Hand-in-Hand Initiative, are aligning with Nigeria’s broader agricultural transformation goals. He reaffirmed that dairy remains central to his administration’s strategy to end hunger, expand exports, and ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in milk and meat production.