Nigeria, AU Intensify Efforts to Expand Africa’s Livestock Market

Nigeria, the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources and other stakeholders are stepping up efforts to unlock Africa’s livestock market estimated at $3.4 trillion by strengthening value chains, attracting investment and promoting trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The move comes as Africa’s population of about 1.2 billion continues to grow, increasing demand for meat and livestock products. The bureau estimates that the continent’s meat market, currently valued at more than $66 billion, could exceed $100 billion by 2034, with demand projected to reach 34.8 million tonnes by 2050.

In Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced a $50 billion livestock investment programme backed by the private sector to expand the industry. The initiative, supported by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, aims to raise the sector’s contribution to the economy from about $32 billion to $74 billion.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the programme aligns with the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy and will depend on strong private sector participation across the livestock value chain.

He identified red meat, dairy and leather as priority areas and said investment is also needed in feed production, pasture development, animal health services and genetic improvement to increase productivity.

President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Jani Ibrahim, said the initiative could help expand the livestock industry, create jobs and boost non-oil exports if properly implemented.

Meanwhile, the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources said its 2025 annual report shows progress in strengthening livestock systems across Africa to support food security and economic growth.

The report highlighted the adoption of the Policy Framework for Economic African Feed and Fodder Sectors and Industries to guide development of feed and fodder systems across the continent.

It also noted the launch of the Pan-African Programme for the Eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants in Addis Ababa, aimed at eliminating the disease by 2030.

According to the report, more than $20 million has been mobilised through livestock feed and fodder initiatives, while several countries, including Nigeria, are developing data systems to improve livestock planning and productivity.