The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to transitioning from policy formulation to full-scale implementation in transforming the livestock sector, with a strong emphasis on food security, nutrition, and economic growth.
This position was reiterated by the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during his participation as a panelist at the 3rd Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW 2026) held in Kaduna. The high-level forum focused on translating strategic policies into tangible outcomes across Africa’s food value chain.
The event, which began on April 21, 2026, continued the following day at the newly commissioned Kaduna State Banquet Hall, unveiled by Kashim Shettima. It brought together policymakers, communication experts, and industry leaders to explore the role of strategic communication in strengthening food systems, policy development, and agricultural branding.
Minister Highlights Shift from Potential to Productivity
Speaking during the panel session, Mukhtar Maiha stressed that the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development represents a turning point in repositioning the sector from decades of underperformance to structured economic growth.
“For over 60 years, the livestock sector remained largely outside the formal economy. Today, we are taking deliberate steps to mainstream a $32 billion opportunity and translate it into real value for Nigerians,” he said.
He explained that current reforms are focused on enhancing productivity across the livestock value chain, including animal health, feeding systems, market access, and value addition, while also addressing low consumption of animal-source protein in Nigeria.
“We are not just talking about potential anymore; we are acting to ensure that Nigerians have access to nutritionally balanced diets. The reality today is that our consumption of milk and meat remains among the lowest in Africa, and that must change,” the Minister added.
Livestock Positioned as Profitable Economic Venture
The Minister also challenged prevailing perceptions about agriculture, describing livestock as a modern, sustainable, and highly profitable enterprise capable of generating consistent daily income.
“Livestock is not a fallback after retirement; it is one of the most sustainable and profitable ventures. From milk to meat, eggs to leather, it is a sector of continuous productivity,” he affirmed.
Experts Call for Policy Alignment and Narrative Shift
Other panelists echoed the need to move beyond rhetoric to actionable solutions. Brylyne Chitsunge emphasised aligning policies with on-the-ground realities, particularly in disease control, feed systems, and productivity enhancement.
Meanwhile, Arik Karani, President of the Africa Public Relations Association (APRA), highlighted the critical role of communication in reshaping public perception of agriculture, urging professionals to drive a narrative that positions farming as a respected and viable career path.
Adding to the discourse, Demo Kalla of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University advocated for curriculum reforms and innovation-driven agriculture, stressing that modern farming must be anchored on data, research, and technology.
NIPR Announces Agriculture, Food Security Hub
In a major outcome of the session, Ike Neliaku, President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, announced plans to establish an Agriculture and Food Security Hub.
The initiative, he said, will serve as a strategic platform to deepen communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement in advancing Nigeria’s food security agenda.
The discussions at NPRW 2026 underscored a unified call for coordinated action, policy implementation, and strategic communication as critical drivers in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s livestock and agricultural sectors.
