IITA and Nigeria’s Livestock Ministry Join Forces to Accelerate Innovation and Sustainability in Animal Agriculture

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)–CGIAR has deepened its collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) in a bold step to drive innovation, research, and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s livestock sector. The partnership is expected to strengthen feed and fodder production, empower women and youth, and integrate the One Health approach to build a more resilient and productive livestock ecosystem.

Source:IITA

During a high-level meeting in Abuja, IITA Director General and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, Dr. Simeon Ehui, led a delegation to the Ministry where he met with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, and senior officials to explore how IITA’s scientific expertise and CGIAR’s global innovations can align with Nigeria’s livestock transformation agenda.

Dr. Ehui described the partnership as a vital opportunity to scale decades of agricultural breakthroughs that have reshaped food systems across Africa. “IITA remains deeply committed to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda,” he said. “Through collaboration with the Ministry and other CGIAR centers like the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), we can bring proven technologies in feed systems, climate resilience, and animal health to scale—creating lasting impact for farmers and communities.”

He emphasized that meaningful partnerships are essential to translating research into action, connecting innovation with farmers, and ensuring that scientific solutions directly benefit rural livelihoods.

The renewed alliance between IITA and the Ministry signals a new phase in Nigeria’s livestock development—one anchored on knowledge, technology, and collaboration. It represents a shared vision of a sector that not only feeds the nation but also drives economic growth, empowers the next generation, and safeguards animal and human health for the future.