FG strengthens ranching drive, seeks nationwide livestock transformation

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector, placing ranching at the centre of its reform agenda while advancing feed security and genetic improvement programmes. This was affirmed by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during an inspection visit to Manchong Integrated Farms Limited in Nasarawa State on Thursday. Leading […]

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector, placing ranching at the centre of its reform agenda while advancing feed security and genetic improvement programmes.

This was affirmed by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during an inspection visit to Manchong Integrated Farms Limited in Nasarawa State on Thursday.

Leading a delegation of senior ministry officials and stakeholders, the Minister assessed the farm’s integrated approach to livestock management, fodder production, and breeding operations.

Maiha described the farm as a demonstration of how modern ranching can thrive across Nigeria, noting that even in the dry season, the facility sustains lush green pastures through efficient irrigation systems.

“This farm is a working model proving that ranching is feasible, productive, and scalable in Nigeria,” the Minister said. “With proper planning, adequate feed, and structured management, we can improve productivity, reduce conflicts, and create wealth in the livestock sector.”

He disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development would partner with Manchong Integrated Farms to expand feed and fodder seed production, aiming to establish a national feed distribution system. The farm already supplies fodder to states such as Jigawa and Yobe, positioning it as a foundation for scaling operations nationwide.

“Our goal is to provide consistent, year-round access to quality feed for livestock owners, reduce dependence on open grazing, and boost productivity across the sector,” Maiha explained.

On genetic improvement, the Minister announced that the farm would serve as a pilot centre for breeding programmes, producing adaptable offsprings that can be multiplied and distributed nationwide.

“For every new genetic material we intend to introduce, Manchong Integrated Farms will produce the first generation, ensuring quality and adaptability before nationwide deployment,” he said.

The farm’s proprietor, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, commended the Minister for his field-focused approach, emphasizing that the initiative was designed to demonstrate ranching as a practical solution to recurring farmer–herder conflicts in northern Nigeria.

“Ranching is achievable and economically viable. Replicating this model nationwide can promote peace, generate jobs, and unlock significant economic opportunities,” Dogara said.

He added that northern Nigeria hosts over 70 per cent of the country’s livestock population, noting that capturing even a small share of the global $2.5 trillion dairy and beef market could generate billions of dollars annually for Nigeria.

Also speaking, a livestock business partner to the Botswana Embassy in Abuja, Mr. Clinton Agbo, praised the farm as a strong platform for Pan-African collaboration.

“This facility is ideal for pilot programmes that bring African expertise together. Botswana can support with experience, Nigeria can lead implementation, and Africa will benefit,” he said.