The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has commenced a comprehensive data-driven assessment aimed at strengthening planning, investment, and policy implementation within Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Officials disclosed that the exercise is designed to generate accurate and up-to-date information on key aspects of the livestock industry, including animal population, production systems, feed resources, disease prevalence, market trends, and infrastructure needs.
According to the ministry, the lack of reliable and comprehensive data has long limited effective decision-making and hindered the growth of the sector. The new assessment is expected to provide a strong evidence base for targeted interventions and sustainable development strategies.
The initiative will involve collaboration with state governments, research institutions, livestock associations, and development partners, ensuring broad stakeholder participation and data accuracy.
The ministry noted that the assessment will also examine critical areas such as value chain performance, processing capacity, trade opportunities, and climate-related challenges, which are increasingly affecting livestock production across the country.
Officials emphasized that adopting a data-driven approach will improve the government’s ability to allocate resources efficiently, monitor progress, and attract private sector investment into the livestock industry.
In addition, the exercise is expected to support efforts to modernise the sector through better planning for ranching systems, veterinary services, feed production, and market infrastructure.
Stakeholders welcomed the initiative, noting that credible data is essential for addressing long-standing issues such as low productivity, poor coordination, and inadequate investment in the livestock sector.
Experts also highlighted the importance of digital technologies and geospatial mapping in improving livestock data collection and management, particularly in remote and pastoral communities.
However, challenges such as funding constraints, logistics, and the need for continuous data updates were identified as key issues that must be addressed for the initiative to succeed.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern and competitive livestock industry through evidence-based policies, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
With the commencement of the assessment, stakeholders believe Nigeria is taking a significant step toward creating a more efficient, resilient, and investment-friendly livestock sector.
