FG Seeks Investment to Expand Nigeria’s Livestock Industry

The Federal Government has called on investors and development partners to support the growth of Nigeria’s livestock industry as part of efforts to improve food security and drive economic development. The appeal was made at a breakfast meeting organised by the Agro-Allied Group of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce in Lagos.

Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, represented at the event, said the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development demonstrates the government's commitment to developing the sector into a major contributor to the economy. He said achieving this goal will require stronger partnerships with private investors, research institutions, development agencies and international partners, especially from the United States.

The minister said the Ministry is ready to support partnerships that promote technology transfer, build capacity, attract investment, expand market access and encourage sustainable livestock production. He added that collaboration will help improve food security, increase innovation and create long-term economic opportunities.

President of the Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce, Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, said Nigeria has abundant agricultural resources but must improve value addition, logistics and compliance with export standards to maximise returns. He noted that higher agricultural productivity could increase the country's Gross Domestic Product and create more employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

The meeting, themed *Harvest of Opportunity: Nigeria-US Agribusiness Partnership for the Twenty-First Century*, also featured contributions from industry leaders and the United States Department of Agriculture. Participants identified animal feed production and agribusiness investment as key areas for cooperation and called for stronger partnerships to improve the competitiveness of Nigeria's agriculture and livestock sectors.