The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed strong support for the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development, emphasizing its potential to significantly boost Nigeria’s foreign earnings, reduce transhumance, and mitigate poverty and conflicts. This was stated by MACBAN’s National President, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, during a news briefing on Sunday in Abuja.
Othman-Ngelzarma highlighted that the livestock sector is currently valued at over N33 trillion, with expectations of growth to over N75 trillion in the coming years due to new investments. He compared the livestock sector to the blue economy, suggesting that an updated livestock production system could save Nigeria billions of dollars in foreign exchange currently spent on importing powdered milk and other livestock products.
He projected that Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings from the livestock sector could increase more than tenfold. By 2050, when Nigeria’s population is expected to reach about 402 million, the nutritional demands will rise, necessitating enhanced livestock production to meet protein needs. This goal can be best achieved through a dedicated ministry.
Commending President Bola Tinubu for establishing the ministry, Othman-Ngelzarma noted that the livestock industry employs over 20 million Nigerians and has the potential to create millions of additional quality jobs. This development is timely, given the high levels of graduate and youth unemployment in the country. The sector could position Nigeria to earn billions from exporting leather, beef, and other livestock-related products.
Othman-Ngelzarma explained that the livestock industry encompasses not just cows but also pigs, goats, sheep, fish, donkeys, camels, and more. He criticized educated commentators for equating the new ministry to the Ruga project of the previous administration and for promoting anti-Fulani sentiments. He emphasized that the ministry would open opportunities for veterinarians, animal scientists, beef and dairy processors, and investment bankers.
Highlighting the value of Nigerian livestock products, Othman-Ngelzarma mentioned that the Sokoto red skin goat leather is the most valuable and expensive leather globally, used by luxury brands like Gucci and Armani. Nigeria earns approximately $1.2 billion annually from exporting hide and skin.
In conclusion, he reiterated support for President Tinubu’s initiative, urging critics to adopt a broader perspective and recognize the substantial benefits the new ministry could bring to Nigeria.
