Livestock Minister Rallies Stakeholders to End Nigeria’s Dependence on Dairy Imports

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s dairy industry have been urged to think boldly and act decisively to end the nation’s heavy reliance on imported milk. Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, made the call in Abuja during the National Dairy Policy Implementation Framework Validation Workshop, emphasizing the need for fresh ideas and practical solutions that can drive self-sufficiency in milk production.

Source: naijnewsalert

Maiha challenged participants to thoroughly review the draft framework, identify obstacles, and design a clear roadmap that will make locally sourced milk a reality in every Nigerian home. “We must see this as more than a policy document,” he said. “It is a blueprint for change — one that will ensure the milk we drink is proudly Nigerian, produced by our farmers, and sustained by our own systems.”

The minister described the over $1.5 billion Nigeria spends annually on dairy imports as a missed opportunity that could be redirected into building the country’s agricultural future. Turning that expense into an investment, he said, would unlock new jobs, strengthen rural economies, and improve national food security.

Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan, represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Policy and Governance, Dr. Adedeji Adeshile, noted that collaboration between government agencies, private investors, farmers, and researchers remains key to transforming the dairy value chain. Such partnerships, he added, could generate employment, empower rural communities, and reduce import dependence.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Akujobi, echoed the call for unity of purpose, highlighting challenges such as low milk yield, poor breeds, and limited access to modern technologies. She expressed confidence that Nigeria has both the livestock resources and the human capacity to turn these hurdles into opportunities for growth.

With participants drawn from Sahel Consulting, CODARAN, GIZ, and other development partners, the workshop ended on a hopeful note — that Nigeria’s dairy revolution could soon shift from aspiration to action, securing a future where every glass of milk reflects local resilience and innovation.