Denmark, Egypt show interest in Nigeria’s livestock sector

Nigeria’s livestock sector has begun attracting significant international attention as the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Republic of Denmark express interest in partnering with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to drive transformation and growth in the sector.

The Egyptian ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamed Fouad, during a courtesy visit to congratulate the pioneer Minister of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Muktar Maiha, on his appointment, noted his country’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in modernising the livestock sector.

The proposed partnership will leverage Egypt’s expertise to advance key areas such as breeding, feed production, and animal health.

In a related development, the Danish ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, during a high-powered delegation visit by the chief executives of leading Danish livestock companies operating in Nigeria, commended the foresight of President Bola Tinubu for establishing the ministry.

The ambassador noted that the creation of the ministry indicates a deep understanding of Nigeria’s needs and demonstrates a strategic vision to address them.

Managing Director of Arla Foods, Mr Peder Pederson, who also spoke during the working visit, pointed out that Nigeria’s huge market of over 200 million people offers a rare opportunity for investment in the dairy subsector.

He noted that Arla has been in Nigeria for many years, contributing to its agricultural development.

He, however, requested that dairy products such as milk be incorporated into Nigeria’s school feeding program.

The Ambassador further extended an invitation to the Minister and his team to visit Denmark for a firsthand experience of the country’s advanced livestock systems, promising to “organize a great visit” for the Minister.

Maiha, in his response, expressed Nigeria’s openness to collaborations that would unbundle, diversify, and improve the livestock sector’s capacity to meet local and international demands.

The minister outlined the Ministry’s priorities, including establishing advanced laboratories, enhancing indigenous breeds, and achieving sufficiency in the cultivation of feed and fodder.

He said, “We are eager to partner on initiatives that will modernize Nigeria’s livestock industry,” adding, “Exchange programs and capacity-building initiatives will play a vital role in equipping staff to deliver on the Ministry’s mandate.”

Maiha reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a thriving livestock sector that not only supports food security but also generates employment and economic growth.

He said that the creation of the Livestock Ministry by President Tinubu sends a strong signal of the Nigerian government’s clear intent to reposition the sector as a key driver of national development and an attractive destination for foreign investment.