Minister targets $23b for exotic livestock breed market

The Minister of Livestock Development, Dr Idi Maiha, has called for commitment from the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, saying such will enable the country to access the $23bn livestock exotic breed market and enhance leather production.

Maiha said this during a courtesy visit by RMRDC Director-General, Prof Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso to the ministry, which saw him highlight several key areas where RMRDC could play a pivotal role.

Some of the areas listed included pasture and fodder development, local production of livestock feeds, and the use of artificial insemination to increase milk yield in cattle.

He called for the promotion of exotic livestock breeds such as the Sokoto Red goat, which produces high-quality leather.

“This breed has significant potential in the global leather market, which is valued at over $23bn, but Nigeria’s current share remains minimal due to a lack of quality leather products,” Maiha pointed out.

He also emphasised the “need for research into local medicines and vaccines, alongside the development of strategies to protect the skins of livestock species.”

He emphasised the need for infrastructure such as cold chain and solar dryers which help improve the shelf life of livestock products.

In his remarks, the RMRDC DG, Prof Ike-Muonso, said the council is committed to advancing the livestock sector through research and development.

Outlining the past and ongoing initiatives of the council aimed at boosting the sector, Ike-Muonso listed dairy development projects such as the establishment of milk collection centres in Paikonkore, FCT, and Yola in collaboration with Modibo University in Adamawa.

He also highlighted the council’s vaccine development efforts, including thermostable vaccine production for poultry in partnership with the Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Jos.