An animal geneticist, Prof. Uma Oke, has urged the Federal Government to strengthen support for animal genetic improvement research programmes in Nigeria.
Oke, a Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), made the call while delivering the institution’s 66th Inaugural Lecture on Wednesday.
In his lecture, titled “Seed Boogie and Products of Animal Origin: A Panacea for Quality Protein Crisis”, he highlighted the importance of such research programmes for national livestock development.
According to Oke, Nigeria has significant potential to close its protein gap through the optimal use of indigenous poultry strains.
He said his study shows that both local and exotic poultry breeds hold “rich genetic material capable of transforming national protein production if properly developed.”
Oke explained that applying core genetic principles, such as heterosis, breed complementarity, and enhanced variability, can produce birds with faster growth, higher yield, and stronger disease resistance.
He pointed to results from the guinea fowl lavender-pearl combinations, which “clearly demonstrate the value of targeted crossbreeding in developing distinct and superior strains.”
Describing indigenous chickens as “a reliable, affordable, and nationally strategic source of quality protein,” Oke said improving these breeds is critical for food security and rural economic empowerment.
He called for stronger collaboration among researchers, farmers, policymakers, and industry players to scale up innovative protein production systems aligned with emerging breeding technologies.
Oke expressed concern that while more than 600 crop varieties have been registered since 1983, only three poultry strains—the Bununafha, Shika Brown, and Nuela—have been officially recorded.
“The country must expand and formalist the registration of genetically improved poultry strains if it hopes to compete globally,” he said.
He advocated increased financial support for breeders, noting that stabilizing a new strain may take seven to 20 years.
“Sustained government funding is essential for breeders to maintain long-term breeding cycles and achieve meaningful genetic advancement,” he said.
Oke recommended restructuring the National Animal Production Research Institute into species-specific research centres, with poultry and pig units located in southern states where production conditions are favorable.
He also called for improved funding and modern infrastructure for research facilities to exploit comparative advantages and accelerate genetic progress.
Oke urged the establishment of more research centres nationwide, including strengthening the emerging hub at Umudike to conserve indigenous traits and drive innovation. He further advised that institutions with available land should be supported to host species-based research facilities for poultry and pig development.
He described the improvement of animal genetic resources as “a national obligation essential to food security, sustainable development, and economic growth.”
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, Prof. Maduebibisi Iwe, described the lecture as highly impactful.
Iwe said the lecture clarified the concept of “seed boogie” as it relates to animal mating and the production of offspring. He noted that the lecturer highlighted the link between animal reproduction, sustainable breeding, and improved access to high-quality protein.
“Success in these areas should not be just an academic achievement but a national imperative,” Iwe said.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustaining inaugural lectures and encouraged public participation in future events.
He also commended the Federal Government for creating the Ministry of Livestock Development, expressing hope that it, in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, would address Nigeria’s protein and nutrition challenges.
In an interview with newsmen, the wife of the lecturer, Dr. Ifeyinwa Uma-Kalu, described the lecture as part of her husband’s intellectual journey. Uma-Kalu, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, said she provided encouragement and sometimes acted as a sounding board, reviewing parts of the lecture and offering contributions.
