FG Targets $74bn GDP Contribution From Livestock Sector

The Federal Government says it plans to raise the livestock sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product from $32 billion to more than $74 billion over the next 10 years. The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made this known in Ilorin during a livestock stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Kwara State Government.

Source: dailytimesng

Speaking through his Special Adviser, Mark Mbaram, the minister said the livestock sector is now being treated as a key pillar of food security, employment and economic growth. He noted that food security is directly linked to national security, which informed the decision to give livestock development greater policy attention.

Maiha disclosed that a National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy has been developed and approved by the National Economic Council. He added that a special committee has also been constituted to drive ranching as a sustainable model for livestock production, stressing that open grazing and itinerant herding are no longer viable.

According to the minister, ranching allows for better animal management, improved productivity and higher returns for farmers and investors. He said the sector offers strong opportunities across beef, poultry, dairy and micro-ruminant production, with the potential to create jobs and boost economic output.

The minister commended the Kwara State Government for its commitment to livestock development, describing the state as an important partner in implementing federal plans. State officials and industry stakeholders at the engagement said improved policies, animal health services and private-sector partnerships would be critical to unlocking the sector’s full economic potential.