The FG expands livestock development project to 10 additional states in partnership with the World Bank to modernize agricultural value chains and enhance food security.
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According to an official announcement from the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the expanded rollout occurred during the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) Implementation Support Mission held in Yola, Adamawa State. Furthermore, delegates from newly admitted states joined existing sub-national partners to review operational guidelines and coordinate field activities.
Backstory: Resolving Historical Conflict Drivers and Unlocking Export Potential
To understand why this expansion marks a critical milestone, we must examine how structural challenges historically constrained Nigeria’s livestock sector. For decades, open grazing controversies, water scarcity, and seasonal fodder shortages triggered severe conflict between pastoralists and local farming communities across the North and Middle Belt regions.
Additionally, fragmented industry data and outdated husbandry methods hindered commercial scaling. Consequently, the Federal Government established a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development and partnered with global institutions to build modern infrastructure. By scaling up the L-PRES initiative, authorities aim to tap into an estimated $3.2 billion red meat export market while building a robust National Livestock Information Management System.
- 2023–2025: Initial L-PRES pilot schemes established pasture development and water access points to reduce nomadic migration.
- Mid-2026: Federal Ministry of Livestock Development created a comprehensive $3.2 billion export framework for red meat.
- October 2026: World Bank and Nigerian authorities officially onboard 10 new states in Yola.
Strategic Objectives for Agribusiness and Regional Market Growth
Under the expanded program, participating states will receive technical support to establish commercial pasture production, processing hubs, and cold-chain supply networks. World Bank Task Team Leader Manivel Sene and L-PRES National Coordinator Dr. Sanusi Abubakar highlighted that the next phase prioritizes youth employment, artificial insemination technology, and private sector participation.
“L-PRES has become a key driver of livestock development through various interventions aimed at strengthening productivity, resilience, and growth across the industry,” stated Minister Idi Mukhtar Maiha.
In conclusion, as the FG expands livestock development project across sub-national regions, agricultural commercialization receives a vital boost. Through targeted infrastructure investments and modern husbandry methods, Nigeria moves closer to self-sufficiency and sustainable economic diversification.
