0
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development was created to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s largely undeveloped livestock sector. Its objective is to increase commercial productivity, which could open doors for the export of live animals, genetics, and animal feed.
In December 2024, the United States signed seven animal health export protocols with Nigeria, creating further opportunities to grow livestock exports, especially if the ministry focuses on enhancing commercial productivity.
Despite its potential, Nigeria’s livestock sector remains underdeveloped, partly due to factors such as regional preferences in consumption and traditional breeding practices. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Nigeria is the largest swine producer in Africa, with a herd of about nine million pigs, mostly raised by small-scale farmers. Yet, pork remains the least consumed animal protein in the country.
The ministry has noted Nigeria’s low per capita animal protein consumption and has set a goal to increase daily intake by prioritising commercial development within the sector. This, it believes, will ultimately open up export opportunities for the country.
3rd June, 2025/ USDA/ Nigeria
https://www.fas.usda.gov/
