Fodder production can ensure improved livelihood, food security — Experts

In a bid to enhance Nigeria’s livestock industry and address long-standing challenges in the sector, agriculture experts have emphasized the importance of commercial fodder production and value chain development for livestock farmers. This was highlighted at a five-day capacity-building training for 100 livestock farmers in Kwara State, organized by the Kwara Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), the World Bank, and the Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA), with implementation by SG Imperial Concept Limited.

Experts at the event underscored the role of fodder production in improving livestock productivity, reducing farmer-herder conflicts, and fostering agribusiness opportunities. Mallam Nureni Razaq, an L-PRES state officer, noted that the commercialization of fodder production would not only ensure a steady feed supply for livestock but also generate employment and alleviate poverty among farmers. He pointed out that competition between livestock and humans for food resources has been a major factor in farmer-herder clashes, which structured fodder production could mitigate.

Dr. Abdulhakeem Ajeigbe of Bayero University Kano’s Centre for Dryland Agriculture highlighted the training’s focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of fodder production. Participants learned to process fodder from crop residues and forest trees into affordable livestock feed, market their products, and establish storage solutions. Notably, they were trained to produce salt licks locally at a significantly lower cost compared to commercial alternatives, further enhancing profitability.

The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to commercialize agriculture, ensuring food security and economic growth. With the country’s population projected to reach 300 million in the next 25 years, Dr. Ajeigbe stressed that mechanization, intensification, and commercialization of agriculture—especially in livestock farming—are crucial to meeting food demands. He emphasized that engaging youth and women in agribusiness would be key to achieving sustainable food production.

Retired Deputy Director of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Abdulraheem Yahaya Onipe, described the training as a game-changer for livestock farmers, helping them reduce feed costs and maximize profitability. He noted that even if only 30–40% of the participants commercialize their fodder production, it could significantly transform the livestock industry.

Onipe also highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s newly created Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, which will focus on tailored policies, budget allocations, and improved management of livestock farming. He noted that poor livestock management in the past had led to inefficiencies, as evidenced by free-ranging animals scavenging for feed.
Source- Tribune

Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
As Nigeria looks to build a resilient and profitable livestock sector, the success of fodder production will depend on stakeholder collaboration. The training in Kwara signals a shift toward commercial livestock feed solutions, which will have far-reaching effects across the agri-food value chain. Here’s how key stakeholders stand to benefit:

1. Livestock Farmers & Pastoralists – The shift towards structured fodder production will provide consistent, high-quality feed, enhancing animal health, growth rates, and milk/meat yields. This will reduce dependency on natural grazing, limiting conflicts over land use.
2. Agripreneurs & Agro-Processors – Entrepreneurs can explore new business opportunities in fodder production, feed processing, and distribution. The development of storage and marketing clusters will further strengthen the fodder value chain.
3. Policymakers & Government Agencies – The establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development presents an opportunity to implement targeted policies that support commercial livestock farming. It is critical for the ministry to facilitate access to credit, modern equipment, and extension services for livestock farmers.
4. Food Security & Economic Growth – With structured fodder production, Nigeria can significantly boost its meat and dairy industry, reducing imports and increasing local food production. This will improve nutritional security and create employment along the livestock value chain.
5. Youth & Women in Agriculture – Encouraging youth and women to participate in fodder production and livestock farming will drive innovation and economic empowerment in rural communities.

The Kwara State initiative highlights the critical role of fodder production in transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector. To maximize its impact, stakeholders must ensure continuous training, investment in storage and processing infrastructure, and integration of technology for efficient fodder production. With proper implementation, this intervention could be a model for nationwide adoption, positioning livestock farming as a profitable and sustainable enterprise in Nigeria.”