FG Eyes Red Meat Export Growth Through Niger State Partnership

News in brief:

-The Federal Government and Niger State are strengthening collaboration to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector.

-The partnership focuses on large-scale production, investment, and positioning Nigeria for red meat exports.

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration with Niger State to accelerate livestock sector transformation and position Nigeria for large-scale red meat production and export.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during a meeting with a high-level delegation from the state in Abuja.

Niger State Positioned as Livestock Hub

Maiha described Niger State as one of Nigeria’s most strategic locations for livestock production, citing its vast landmass, abundant water resources and favourable agricultural conditions.

He noted that the state’s fertile environment, particularly around the River Niger, makes it highly suitable for large-scale livestock development.

The minister also commended the delegation, led by Ibrahim Mami Ijah, describing their visit as a strong indication of the state’s commitment to advancing the livestock sector.

FG Facilitates Private Sector Investments

Maiha disclosed that the Federal Government is already supporting major private sector investments in the state, including a Canadian-backed genetics breeding centre and large-scale commercial fodder production projects.

He explained that these initiatives are aimed at strengthening feed supply and improving livestock productivity across the value chain.

The ministry is also working towards establishing disease-free livestock production compartments that integrate cow-calf ranching, commercial feedlots and modern abattoirs within secured zones.

According to the minister, this model will enhance biosecurity, reduce production costs and prepare Nigeria for competitive participation in the global red meat export market.

Niger State Signals Readiness for Partnership

In his remarks, Ijah expressed the state government’s readiness to align with the Federal Government’s livestock reform agenda.

He noted that with about 76,000 square kilometres of landmass, nearly 10 per cent of Nigeria’s total land area, Niger State has the capacity to serve as a major hub for livestock development.

The commissioner added that the state is prepared to collaborate in key areas such as livestock identification systems, feedlot development, pasture expansion and animal health management.

Focus on Grazing Reserves and Value Chain Development

Ijah further revealed that Niger State has 22 grazing reserves, nine of which are already gazetted, positioning it strongly for pilot programmes in livestock transformation.

Other members of the delegation included senior officials such as Jonathan Wasa and Jiya Danladi Mohammed.

The collaboration is expected to strengthen livestock value chains, attract investment and enhance Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable meat production and export growth.