Minister calls for creation of livestock colleges, charges ARCN to drive innovation
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has urged the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) to enhance research and innovation in livestock development to support the establishment of specialized colleges dedicated to animal husbandry.
During a meeting with the ARCN delegation, led by Professor Garba Sharubutu, the Minister emphasized the need for research-driven solutions to improve Nigeria’s livestock sector. He questioned the adequacy of existing agricultural colleges in catering to the growing population and called for institutions that focus solely on livestock production and management.
Strengthening Livestock Research for Sectoral Transformation
The Minister outlined key priorities for livestock development, including:
- Breed improvement for better productivity.
- Disease management to reduce livestock losses.
- Sustainable feeding practices to ensure adequate nutrition.
- Traceability systems for livestock tracking and market confidence.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Maiha revealed plans to convert 417 grazing reserves into communal ranches to curb unrestricted cattle movement, promote structured livestock management, and mitigate conflicts between herders and farmers.
The Minister also called on ARCN to develop indigenous, drought-resistant grasses suitable for Nigeria’s environment instead of relying on imported varieties. He stressed that researchers must move beyond theoretical studies and generate practical, market-driven innovations to improve livestock productivity.
The Need for Dedicated Livestock Colleges
Maiha pointed out the disparity between advancements in crop agriculture and livestock research. While Nigeria has 16 Federal Colleges of Agriculture, many have only one or two departments focused on livestock, which he deemed insufficient for a sector with such growth potential.
Professor Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of ARCN, acknowledged these gaps and revealed plans to establish more agricultural colleges, particularly in the South-East, where institutions dedicated to agriculture are fewer. He also listed challenges faced by Nigeria’s 16 Agricultural Research Institutes, including:
- Inadequate clinical and laboratory facilities.
- Limited funding.
- Understaffing in research institutions.
He called for greater government support and private-sector collaboration to drive sustainable transformation in the livestock sector.
Source- Tribune
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The call for specialized livestock colleges and intensified research presents a critical opportunity for stakeholders across the livestock value chain. If successfully implemented, the reforms could enhance productivity, investment opportunities, and food security in Nigeria.
Key Takeaways for Agri-Food Investors, Farmers, and Policymakers
- Livestock Research Needs Urgent Investment
The livestock sector lags behind in research and innovation compared to crop farming. Establishing specialized livestock colleges and investing in disease control, breed improvement, and sustainable feeding systems is essential for boosting productivity.
Research should prioritize indigenous solutions, particularly in drought-resistant forage to improve livestock nutrition and reduce reliance on costly imported feed. - Structured Livestock Management Could Reduce Conflicts
Converting grazing reserves into communal ranches aligns with global best practices for livestock management. This move can significantly reduce farmer-herder clashes, improve animal health, and create a more structured market for livestock products. - Expanding Educational Institutions for Workforce Development
The shortage of livestock-focused educational institutions means Nigeria is not producing enough skilled professionals to drive innovation in the sector. Strengthening training programs will equip young agri-preneurs, veterinary experts, and animal scientists with the expertise needed for sectoral growth. - Private-Sector Participation is Critical
With many foreign investors showing interest in Nigeria’s livestock sector, ARCN and the Ministry must create an enabling business environment for public-private partnerships (PPPs) in research, feed production, breeding programs, and meat processing. - Policy Support & Funding Remain a Challenge
Nigeria’s agricultural research institutes are underfunded, limiting their ability to provide innovative solutions. To compete globally, Nigeria must allocate higher research budgets, facilitate technology adoption, and provide access to credit for livestock farmers.
The Minister’s push for livestock-focused research and education is a step in the right direction. However, its success will depend on policy execution, adequate funding, and strong private-sector participation. Livestock farmers, investors, and research institutions must collaborate to implement sustainable solutions that enhance productivity, ensure food security, and create wealth in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.”
