Efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s livestock value chain took centre stage in Katsina State as key stakeholders gathered for a regional dialogue focused on improving livestock transportation, enhancing security and promoting safer movement of animals across the country.
The engagement, convened by the Amalgamated Union of Food Stuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria, brought together government officials, security agencies, livestock traders, producers and other industry stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to challenges affecting the sector.
Held under the theme of promoting safer livestock movement and eliminating bottlenecks along major highways, the dialogue explored strategies to improve the efficiency of livestock transportation while reducing security risks faced by operators.
Participants emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between government institutions, security agencies and industry players to facilitate the safe and seamless movement of livestock, a critical component of Nigeria’s livestock value chain.
Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of addressing illegal checkpoints, extortion and other logistical challenges that increase transportation costs and disrupt the movement of livestock and agricultural commodities.
The meeting further witnessed the launch of a digital registration exercise for members of the Amalgamated Union of Food Stuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria.
According to the organisers, the digital registration initiative is intended to improve member identification, strengthen data management and enhance coordination within the union.
Participants noted that adopting digital systems would promote transparency, improve communication and support more effective planning and service delivery across the livestock marketing network.
The dialogue concluded with renewed calls for sustained stakeholder engagement and policy reforms aimed at improving livestock transportation, enhancing security and supporting the growth of Nigeria’s livestock industry as a key contributor to food security and economic development.
