The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to large-scale dairy production through a strategic collaboration with the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s livestock sector and reduce dependence on imports.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by an NSIA delegation in Abuja, stating that the Ministry would provide technical backing to ensure the success of the initiative.
According to him, “the Ministry will deploy a Technical Working Committee comprising relevant departments to work closely with the NSIA team to develop clear modalities and ensure effective implementation of the project.”
Maiha explained that the committee would also generate innovative concepts for dairy products and establish a robust monitoring framework, noting that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to boost local production, strengthen rural economies, and promote sustainable growth under the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy.
He assured the delegation of full government support, including access to critical infrastructure such as power and energy, to enable Nigeria meet global best practices in dairy production.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, commended the NSIA for what she described as a forward-thinking initiative, expressing the Ministry’s readiness to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Earlier, the Senior Vice President of NSIA, Iruansi Itoandon, said the visit was aimed at deepening collaboration and advancing implementation strategies for the UK Dairy Project.
“We are advancing discussions on strengthening investment and partnership frameworks to support dairy infrastructure development, while promoting collaboration between government institutions, private investors, and international partners,” he said.
Itoandon noted that ongoing projects in Nasarawa State have recorded progress in modernising farming practices and improving local milk production capacity. He added that the project focuses on enhancing cattle genetics, feed availability, and pasture management, while also reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported dairy products.
He further emphasised the importance of capacity building and technology transfer, noting that training programmes for farmers and extension officers remain a critical component of the initiative.
The Technical Working Committee is expected to conduct a comprehensive review of the project and outline actionable steps to sustain the growth of dairy production nationwide.
