Nigeria’s livestock industry is emerging as a major contributor to the country’s economy, generating an impressive $1.2 billion annually from the export of hides and skin alone. This revelation comes from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), a prominent advocacy group for pastoralists in the country.
According to MACBAN’s President, Othman Ngelzarma, the livestock sector is currently valued at over ₦33 trillion ($42 billion) and is projected to grow to ₦75 trillion ($96 billion) in the coming years, driven by new investments and government initiatives.
Key Highlights:
- Economic Impact: The livestock sector contributes 10% to Nigeria’s non-oil GDP and 30% to agricultural GDP.
- Employment: Over 20 million Nigerians are employed in various aspects of the livestock industry.
- Export Value: Nigerian leather, particularly the Sokoto red goat skin, is highly prized in the global market and is featured in luxury brands like Gucci and Armani.
- Future Projections: With proper investment, Nigeria could potentially increase its foreign exchange earnings from livestock exports tenfold.
- Diversification: The sector encompasses a wide range of animals, including cows, pigs, goats, sheep, fish, donkeys, and camels.
Recent Developments:
On July 9, 2024, President Bola Tinubu took a significant step by approving the creation of a new Ministry of Livestock Development. This move was accompanied by the inauguration of the Renewed Hope livestock reform implementation committee, tasked with addressing the long-standing farmer-herder crisis.
MACBAN has welcomed these initiatives, viewing them as crucial steps towards modernising Nigeria’s livestock industry. Ngelzarma emphasised the potential for the sector to mirror the success of the newly created blue economy, saving billions in foreign exchange currently spent on importing powdered milk and other livestock products.
Addressing Concerns:
MACBAN has refuted claims that the new ministry is an attempt to forcibly acquire land for pastoralists, describing such allegations as misguided. The association stresses that the initiative aims to benefit all Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion, involved in various aspects of the livestock value chain.
Looking Ahead:
To realise its full potential, the Nigerian livestock sector requires collaborative efforts between the government and private sector. Investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, veterinary services, and skills training are essential to transforming traditional practices into a modern, sustainable livestock production system.
MACBAN urges Nigeria to learn from global success stories such as Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand, which have leveraged dedicated agricultural and livestock ministries to transform their economies. By adapting these models to the Nigerian context, the country can ensure sustainable growth and development in this vital sector.
As Nigeria continues to diversify its economy, the livestock industry stands poised to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, creating employment, and boosting export revenues.