L-PRES Drives Plan to Standardise Livestock Genetic Data Systems

The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, L-PRES, says it is stepping up efforts to improve and protect Nigeria’s animal genetic resources through standardised data systems.

National Project Coordinator, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar, made this known at a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja focused on aligning protocols for the identification, documentation, and monitoring of animal genetic resources.

He said the initiative supports national goals to increase livestock production, improve climate resilience, protect biodiversity, and strengthen food security and rural livelihoods. He added that proper identification of livestock breeds will help determine their traits, adaptability, and productivity.

Abubakar explained that accurate data collection and monitoring will provide information on population size, distribution, and risks, helping authorities take timely action when needed. He noted that while research exists in Nigeria, much of the data is incomplete or inconsistent.

He said the workshop is aimed at developing clear and uniform guidelines for data collection and management across the country. Expected outcomes include better data systems, standard breed classification, and improved monitoring tools.

According to him, the results will support policy decisions, strengthen breeding programmes, and improve conservation efforts, in line with the National Strategy and Action Plan on Animal Genetic Resources launched in 2025.