In a decisive move to bolster national food security and modernize the agricultural landscape, the Federal Government has formalized a strategic partnership aimed at revolutionizing livestock feed production across Nigeria.
The National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) and the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. This agreement establishes a rigorous framework for forage seed research, certification, and commercialization, addressing a critical bottleneck in the country’s livestock value chain.
A Strategic Alliance for Agricultural Resilience
The partnership is designed to tackle the perennial challenges of low pasture productivity and inadequate livestock nutrition, which have historically hindered the sector’s growth. By aligning research expertise with regulatory oversight, the government aims to create a sustainable pipeline of high-quality forage seeds.
“This collaboration is more than just a formal agreement; it is a strategic intervention designed to ensure that our livestock sub-sector is supported by a scientifically-backed, high-yield forage system. By securing the foundation of our feed systems, we are directly enhancing livestock productivity and the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians,” stated Prof. E.A. Iyayi, Senior Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development.
The ceremony was attended by key industry leaders, including the Director General of NASC, Hon. Fatuhu Muhammed, and the Executive Director of NAPRI, Prof. M.R. Hassan, signaling a unified front in the government’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Synergy in Research and Regulation
Under the terms of the MoU, NAPRI will lead the charge in genetic improvement and the development of forage varieties specifically tailored to survive and thrive in Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological conditions.
Complementing this, NASC will deploy its regulatory machinery to ensure quality assurance. This includes:
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Rigorous seed certification and laboratory testing.
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The development of new industry standards for forage.
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Continuous compliance monitoring to protect farmers from low-quality inputs.
Digital Innovation and Capacity Building
A significant highlight of the agreement is the integration of forage seed systems into NASC’s digital platforms. This move will enable real-time traceability, e-certification, and advanced seed data management, bringing the forage sector into the digital age.
Beyond technology, the deal mandates a nationwide push for capacity building. Both institutions will collaborate on technical training and extension services, empowering seed producers and researchers with the tools needed to scale up production and meet the rising demand for sustainable animal feed.
Through this synergy, the Federal Government expects to significantly reduce resource-based conflicts by promoting settled pastoralism supported by abundant, high-quality fodder, ultimately driving long-term economic growth.
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