The Federal Government, the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing climate adaptation financing and promoting sustainable livestock development in Nigeria.
The commitment was made during a breakfast meeting on Thursday in Abuja.
Idi Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, emphasized the need for collaboration and the integration of resources to achieve environmental stewardship alongside economic viability, food security, and social equity.
The meeting, organized by AGNES and German International Cooperation (GIZ) along with other stakeholders, was titled “Strengthening Capacities to Access Climate Adaptation Finance for Climate-Resilient Livestock Production Systems in Nigeria.”
Its objective was to provide a platform for engagement with the private sector on the opportunities and barriers limiting investments in Nigeria’s livestock systems.
Maiha described the event as crucial for financing a resilient and sustainable livestock sector in the country. He stressed that it would integrate environmental stewardship with economic viability and social equity to promote development, economic growth, and food security.
“It is a paradigm shift that will require extensive collaboration and resources for systemic change, making this intervention by BMZ both timely and necessary,” he said.
The minister noted that the meeting aligns with the ministry’s plan for strategic partnerships to transform Nigeria’s livestock industry into a globally competitive sector.
“This will unlock the sector’s vast potential for job creation, economic diversification, and resolution of long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders,” Maiha said.
He added that the ministry has developed the Nigeria Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS) and the Nigeria Livestock Master Plan.
“Animal welfare and traceability are increasingly becoming trade requirements, as livestock contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon footprint of livestock products and responsible production systems is now being tracked,” he said.
Dr. George Ogw, Team Leader at AGNES, said the organization provides an effective framework for stakeholders to engage in finding lasting solutions to challenges in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Ogw emphasized that collaboration is key to harnessing the potential of the sector and assured continued engagement towards achieving set targets.
Dr. Francis Toromade, Director-General of the Feed Industries Practitioners Association of Nigeria (FIPAN), represented by Mr. Franklin Oloniyoyo, said the association ensures the availability of feed, fodder, and other critical materials for the sector.
He added that FIPAN is committed to ensuring year-round access to feed and fodder to support sustainable livestock production.
