Nigeria, Argentina Advance Livestock Cooperation

News in brief:

-Nigeria and Argentina discussed deeper cooperation in livestock development during a diplomatic meeting in Abuja.

-Both countries signalled interest in pursuing a Memorandum of Understanding to support knowledge exchange and sector modernisation.

Nigeria and Argentina advanced discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation in livestock development as part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to modernise the sector and improve its global competitiveness.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, reiterated this commitment when he received the Ambassador of Argentina to Nigeria, Nicolás Perazzo María Naón, during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja on March 16, 2026.

Maiha said the engagement reflected the longstanding diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Argentina, which began in 1963 when Argentina established its embassy in Nigeria. He noted that the relationship has continued to grow steadily over the past six decades, with expanding cooperation on international issues and economic partnerships.

Livestock Ministry Seen as Key to Sector Transformation

The minister explained that the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) marked a new phase in Nigeria’s efforts to reposition the livestock industry as a major driver of food security, job creation and economic growth.

He noted that Argentina remains one of the world’s leading exporters of red meat and a global leader in livestock production. According to him, the South American nation produces nearly three million tonnes of beef annually and recently recorded its highest level of red meat exports in about a century.

Maiha said Argentina’s global leadership in beef, pork and poultry production provides valuable expertise that could support Nigeria in unlocking the full potential of its livestock sector.

Nigeria Seeks Insights on Modern Ranching Systems

The minister further stated that Nigeria is transitioning from open grazing systems to modern, sedentary and private sector-driven ranching models.

He expressed optimism that Argentina’s experience in managing large-scale ranching operations could offer useful lessons for Nigeria as it implements reforms aimed at improving livestock productivity and sustainability.

Argentina Signals Readiness for Knowledge Exchange

In his remarks, Ambassador Naón said Argentina was ready to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in livestock development through the formulation of a Memorandum of Understanding between both countries.

He noted that Argentina is willing to share its expertise in livestock production and expressed hope that the proposed agreement would be advanced quickly to enable practical collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Naón added that Argentina considers Nigeria an important partner in Africa and is keen to expand cooperation in agriculture and livestock production for the mutual benefit of both nations.