The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project has intensified efforts to conserve Nigeria’s indigenous animal genetic resources as part of broader strategies to strengthen livestock productivity, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Project officials disclosed that the initiative is focused on protecting and improving native livestock breeds, which are considered vital for sustainable animal production due to their adaptability to local environmental conditions and resistance to certain diseases.
According to L-PRES, many indigenous breeds are under threat from uncontrolled crossbreeding, environmental pressures, and declining population sizes, raising concerns about the possible loss of valuable genetic traits.
The conservation programme includes activities such as breed identification, genetic documentation, selective breeding, and the establishment of breeding centres and gene banks to preserve important animal resources for future generations.
Stakeholders noted that indigenous breeds possess unique characteristics, including tolerance to heat, resilience to harsh climatic conditions, and ability to survive under low-input systems, making them important assets in the face of climate change.
The initiative also seeks to promote the sustainable utilization of native breeds, encouraging farmers to adopt improved management practices that can enhance productivity without compromising genetic diversity.
In addition, L-PRES is collaborating with research institutions, universities, livestock associations, and local communities to strengthen research, data collection, and awareness on animal genetic conservation.
Experts emphasized that preserving native animal resources is critical for ensuring food security, livestock sustainability, and long-term agricultural resilience. They added that genetic diversity plays an essential role in improving breeding programmes and adapting to emerging diseases and environmental challenges.
The project also highlights the economic potential of indigenous breeds in areas such as meat, milk, leather, and other livestock products, which can contribute to rural livelihoods and agribusiness development.
However, stakeholders pointed to challenges including limited funding, weak breeding infrastructure, and inadequate awareness among farmers, which could hinder conservation efforts if not adequately addressed.
L-PRES reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s livestock heritage through science-based conservation strategies and stakeholder collaboration, ensuring that native breeds remain available for future generations.
With the ongoing efforts, the project aims to build a more resilient, productive, and sustainable livestock sector, anchored on the preservation and strategic use of Nigeria’s indigenous animal genetic resources.
