The Federal Government has said that Nigeria spends over $1.5 billion on milk importation annually and only produces 600,000 tonnes to meet a consumption demand of approximately 1.7 million metric tonnes of milk.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, made this known at the weekend in Abuja as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate World Milk Day with the theme ‘Supporting Nutrition, Health and Economic Resilience Around the Globe’.
He said milk is a vital nutritional resource for healthy living, especially for children’s growth and development, but noted with concern the low rate of milk consumption in Nigeria.
“Nigeria consumes approximately 1.7 million metric tonnes of milk annually, yet we produce only about 600,000 metric tonnes locally, covering just 35 percent of national demand. The remaining 65 percent, worth over $1.5 billion, is imported, mainly in powdered form. This dependence weakens our economy, drains foreign reserves, and limits local industry growth,” he pointed.
Maiha observed that while the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual intake of 210 liters per person, Nigeria’s average stands at a mere 8.7 litres, far below the African average of 40 litres.
“The low rate of milk consumption among Nigerians is worrisome. The low national milk consumption averages just 8.7 litres per person annually, compared to the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 210 litres.
“Our indigenous cattle breeds, primarily managed by pastoralists, yield an average of 1-2 litres of milk per day, compared to purebred or exotic breeds like Friesians or Jerseys, which can produce more than 20-30 litres daily under proper management.”
Citing India, which is considered the world’s largest milk producer and has achieved more than 200 million tonnes annual smallholders’ production, the Minister stressed the importance of increasing national production.
The Minister detailed the government’s commitment to enhancing the livestock sector through the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, which focuses on areas including livestock value chain development, animal health, and youth empowerment. Notable initiatives include the registration of eight pasture species, improvements in animal health services, and collaborative projects with private entities like the dairy training center in Gwagwalada alongside Nestlé Nigeria.
He emphasized the importance of modern dairy practices, citing successful models like Arla’s dairy farm in Kaduna, which has shown substantial advancements in milk production and animal welfare. He also celebrated the transformation of Ikun Dairy Farm in Ekiti State, which has become a national model for dairy production.
According to him, the government aims to double national milk production to 1.2 million metric tonnes within the next five years and has plans to convene the inaugural National Council on Livestock Development by the end of the year.
The Minister urged the media to play an active role in promoting the dairy sector’s progress and enhancing public awareness of related government efforts.
