February 22, 2025
The Federal Government, on Friday, through the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, confirmed plans to establish a gene bank to preserve the genetic makeup of indigenous livestock breeds and preserve them for future generations.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, made the announcement during the 2025 ministerial press briefing in Abuja.
Speaking during the briefing, Maiha, said the gene bank would enable the country to store its indigenous genetic resources, which would be naturally disease resistant.
He emphasized that this initiative is crucial as it would help to preserve the country’s unique livestock breeds instead of replacement.
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“We intend to integrate our indigenous breeds into modern livestock production systems and conduct crossbreeding so that those elements of indigenous genetics are preserved for national growth,” the minister said.
The minister, explained that the government had digitized cattle routes and dams across the country to enable it monitor and track activities in all grazing reserves nationwide, seamlessly.
He said the government would leverage on technology to enhance livestock production and management to grow the sector.
The minister acknowledged that, based on estimates, the country’s livestock sector is valued at over N33 trillion, making it one of Nigeria’s most significant yet underutilized economic assets.
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“We have the largest livestock population in Africa, a rapidly expanding market for meat and dairy products, and a strategic location for agricultural exports.
“However, poor infrastructure, inadequate investment, outdated production methods, and persistent conflicts between farmers and herders have prevented the sector from reaching its full potential.
“For the past few months, we have laid the foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth.
“President Bola Tinubu established the ministry to drive a new era of transformation, innovation, and sustainable growth.
“Our goal is for Nigeria’s livestock sector to become a major contributor to GDP, increasing from the current 5% to 10% by 2030 and creating millions of jobs.
Maiha, disclosed that the ministry’s mandate has expanded beyond traditional livestock management to diversifying the economy, strengthening private sector participation, driving industrialization and securing Nigeria’s future in the global market.
