FG Launches Nationwide Training to Boost Skills of Livestock Extension Officers

A fresh wave of reforms is sweeping through Nigeria’s livestock sector as the Federal Government rolls out a three-day national training programme aimed at strengthening the technical capacity of Livestock Extension Officers across the country.

Source: businessday.ng

At the opening of the workshop in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi—represented by the Director of Livestock Extension and Business Development, Mr. Joseph Ako—affirmed the Ministry’s determination to build a modern, commercially vibrant livestock industry that supports food security, drives economic growth, and uplifts rural livelihoods.

Dr. Akujobi described extension officers as “the lifeblood of the transformation agenda,” stressing that their ability to translate government policies into practical guidance for farmers will shape the success of the national livestock strategy.

Mr. Ako, who addressed participants earlier, encouraged officers to fully engage with the sessions, noting that the knowledge gained will directly strengthen the productivity and resilience of livestock farmers across Nigeria.

The training forms a key pillar of the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, which places extension services at the heart of efforts to promote modern production techniques and sustainable animal management. Over the three-day programme, officers will undergo intensive sessions covering improved husbandry practices, animal welfare, nutrition, health and disease control, biosecurity, waste management, breeding, record keeping, humane handling, and effective extension communication.

By the end of the workshop, the government expects a more skilled, better equipped extension workforce capable of guiding farmers toward higher yields, healthier animals, and a more competitive livestock industry.