If things work out as planned, livestock alone will contribute $74 billion to the Nigeria’s GDP by the year 2035. by that year also the country would have increased its cattle production to 398.9 million heads. The projection was made public by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukthar Maiha. According to him, the projection is not arbitrary, as it is based on current investments and a structured policy in the feed and fodder sub-sector.
The National Animal Feeds and Fodder Policy aims to address challenges hindering the livestock industry’s growth, including inadequate feed and fodder supply, poor quality control, and weak regulatory frameworks. The policy’s key objectives include doubling the national herd, improving feed and fodder production, and promoting investment and research.
The Minister emphasised that the policy will provide a comprehensive framework for enhancing coordination among stakeholders and supporting research and development. The initiative is expected to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry, promoting national food security, rural livelihoods, and economic diversification.
If the policy direction is properly followed, the projection may be realised. This is because feed and fodder account for over 70% of production costs in animal agriculture. It is also noted that this aspect forms the basis of the farmer-herder conflicts, a development that has further compounded efforts at achieving food security in the country. The impact will theretofore include the reduction or elimination of insecurity on the farms, and cut the avoidable losses to farmers on whose produce cattle are forcefully fed even as the criminal herders rape and kill resisting farmers. The policy aims to guide the production, processing, marketing, and utilization of feed and fodder, ensuring adequate and quality supplies.
