Minister targets $23bn exotic livestock breed market
Dr Idi Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, has urged the Raw Materials Research and Development Council to lead the transformation of Nigeria's livestock sector through R&D.Maiha emphasized that this initiative would position Nigeria to enter the $23 billion exotic livestock breed market and strengthen the country's leather production capabilities.
This was revealed by the Minister during a courtesy visit by RMRDC Director-General Prof Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso to the ministry.
The council stated on Friday that Maiha identified several key areas where RMRDC could play a critical role, including pasture and fodder development, local livestock feed production, and the use of artificial insemination to increase milk yield in cattle.
Maiha also emphasized the importance of promoting exotic livestock breeds, such as the Sokoto Red goat, which is known for producing high-quality leather that is frequently misidentified as "Moroccan leather."
"This breed has significant potential in the global leather market, which is valued at over $23bn, but Nigeria's current share remains minimal due to a lack of quality leather products," Maiha informed us.
Additionally, he highlighted the "need for research into local medicines and vaccines, alongside the development of strategies to protect the skins of livestock species."
The minister emphasized the importance of improving cold chain infrastructure and introducing solar dryers to improve livestock product quality and shelf life, increasing the sector's overall value and competitiveness.
Prof. Ike-Muonso, the RMRDC's DG, responded by pledging the council's commitment to advancing the livestock sector through targeted research and development efforts.
He highlighted the council's previous and ongoing initiatives to improve the livestock sector, such as dairy development projects.
Notable efforts include the establishment of milk collection centers in Paikonkore, FCT, and Yola in collaboration with Modibo University, Adamawa.
He also highlighted the council's vaccine development efforts, specifically the production of thermostable vaccines for poultry in collaboration with the Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Jos.
He went on to discuss the council's artificial insemination projects, which aim to increase milk yields in local livestock, including a notable collaboration with the Taraba State government.
According to the statement, the partnership "is expected to transform Nigeria's livestock sector by driving economic growth, improving livelihoods, and promoting local content development."
"This collaboration aims to reduce the country's dependence on foreign inputs, increase agricultural competitiveness, and support sustainable development in the sector."
Leave A Comment