Nigeria targets doubling livestock sector’s $32bn economic contribution — Tinubu

Nigeria is targeting a significant expansion of its livestock sector, aiming to more than double its current estimated annual economic contribution of $32 billion. President Bola Tinubu announced the ambition to position Nigeria as a leading hub for livestock production and processing across Africa. This initiative is part of a broader effort to make the country a major player in the continent's agricultural landscape.

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Our national strategy aims to more than double the sector’s economic contributions to position Nigeria as a leading hub for livestock production and processing in Africa.

Tinubu stated that the Federal Government is committed to transforming livestock production from a traditional, subsistence activity into a modern, technology-driven, and commercially competitive industry. He highlighted that Nigeria possesses one of Africa's largest livestock populations, including over 58 million cattle, 64 million sheep, 124 million goats, and 660 million poultry. The President emphasized that the livestock sector is a crucial pillar for agricultural production, food security, and rural development.

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Our livestock sector is estimated to contribute over 32 billion US dollars annually to the national economy and remains a major pillar of agricultural production, food security, and rural development.

As part of its "Renewed Hope Agenda," the administration established the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in July 2024, a decision described as historic. This move underscores the government's dedication to revitalizing the industry. Reforms based on recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms are being implemented to enhance governance, boost productivity, and foster peaceful, sustainable livestock production systems. The National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy is also underway, focusing on improving livestock genetics, expanding commercial feed production, and promoting climate-smart systems to unlock the sector's full potential.

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This landmark policy initiative demonstrates our commitment to transforming livestock production from a largely subsistence and cultural activity into a modern, technology-driven, commercially competitive, and globally integrated venture.