On September 15, 2023, the federal government announced its readiness to develop diary production in the nation in order to foster economic development. Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, The Director General and Chief Executive Officer (DG/CEO) of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), disclosed this at the launching of a two-day Strategic Interest Research Group Meeting on Livestock Genetic Improvement (SIRGM 4.0). The meeting was held in Oyo State at the Conference Center of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) with the theme, “Accelerating Genetic Improvement for Advances in Livestock Agriculture”.
Mustapha stated that the country had enough number of cattle, and thereby discouraged the importation of diary products. He said there is availability of scientists to manufacture more products from cattle as the country has adequate capability to cater for them. He added that less than 2 litres of milk are produced by Nigerian cattle per cow on a daily basis, which is not commendable enough. He said commitment and hard work are required to meet the goal of the government. The body aims at producing 10-15 litres of milk per cow, each day.
Insemination of Nigerian cattle has commenced.
DG discussed that the meeting was to gather all stakeholders for brainstorm and enlightenment on the next line of action. NABDA has begun to take steps towards the transformation of the Nigerian cattle, using the F1 (first generation). This method is to inseminate and sequence the cattle breed to figure out similar traits of their parents. The insemination of Nigerian cattle has commenced with the collection of the semen of Girolando from Brazil and Bunaji. Artificially inseminated with the semen, Nigerian cattle will transform into more productive ones.
Across the world, it was discovered that many countries ensured transformation of their cattle, with increased production in the quantity and quality of milk required. This showed that low-quality were no longer produced. He disclosed that there is a proposed plan to take a leading position in Africa, firstly in Nigeria, by the agency. This is also to guarantee that productivity becomes commendable. According to Mustapha, he said that the development of production will boost immunity.
Less than 10 percent of needed milk quantity is produced.
The nutritional value of children in the country will increase through the improvement of diary production in Nigeria. Mustapha stated that the country was getting less than 10 percent of needed milk quantity. Speaking on economic value, the DG stated that Nigeria is a big market which is highly recognized in many countries across West Africa and Central Africa. He mentioned that there would be plenty of income generated from lots of markets for the product.
Also speaking, the Research Director of Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics, NABDA, Prof. Oyekanmi Nash, said that Nigerians should anticipate the birthing of new cows to serve as replacement for old cows. He added that the new ones will produce not less than 5-10 litres of milk and will improve without losing the adaptation its Nigerian species. The agency has 21 registered farms in the country, with over 600 inseminated cows. Carving has also began as a result of the crossbreed.
Collaboration among partners in the agricultural sector.
Additionally, the Head of Dairy Development Operations, Friesland Campina WAMCO, John Adekunle, stated that the company was working in collaboration with partners like the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), dairy farmers, young graduates, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, pastoralists, and research institutes. This collaboration between the company and different partners across the field of agriculture will foster the improvement of diary production through establishment of milk collection centres and extension activities in different states across Nigeria.
Related Link
Friesland campina: Website
Improvement of diary production in Nigeria. – Nigerian cattle produce less than 2 litres of milk per cow, per day. – Express your point of view.
many countries are now transforming their cattle, with increased production in the quantity and quality of milk required. This showed that low-quality were no longer produced. He disclosed that there is a proposed plan to take a leading position in Africa, firstly in Nigeria, by the agency. This is also to guarantee that productivity becomes commendable.
Nigerian cattle with low milk output can be enhanced using a variety of techniques. Modern animal husbandry can be used to increase the carrying capacity of the cows. To maximize productivity, it is crucial to invest in contemporary milk products production methods and equipment
Improvement of diary production in Nigeria The government’s attempt to increase dairy output in the nation would be really inspiring to me. It is evident that this endeavor has the potential to strengthen our economy, raise food security, and improve the population’s nutritional state
You’re absolutely right! The current milk yield per cow in Nigeria, producing less than 2 liters of milk per day, is quite low compared to the potential that Nigerian cattle have. This low productivity can be attributed to various factors such as inadequate feeding practices, poor animal health management, lack of access to quality breeding stock, and limited knowledge of modern dairy farming techniques.
Improving dairy production in Nigeria is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it can help meet the growing demand for dairy products in the country. As the population continues to increase, so does the need for nutritious and affordable dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. By increasing the milk yield per cow, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on imported dairy products and become more self-sufficient in meeting the domestic demand.
Secondly, improving dairy production can have a positive impact on the livelihoods of dairy farmers. Dairy farming has the potential to provide a sustainable source of income for small-scale farmers, especially in rural areas. By enhancing productivity, farmers can generate higher revenues from selling milk and dairy products, leading to improved standards of living and economic empowerment.
To improve dairy production in Nigeria, it is essential to focus on key areas. Providing farmers with access to high-quality breeding stock that is genetically superior for milk production can significantly enhance productivity. Additionally, promoting proper nutrition and feeding practices, including the use of balanced diets and improved pasture management, can boost milk yield. Ensuring good animal health through regular veterinary care, disease prevention, and proper hygiene practices is also crucial.
In conclusion, the improvement of dairy production in Nigeria is of utmost importance. By addressing the low milk yield per cow and implementing measures to enhance productivity, Nigeria can meet the growing demand for dairy products, uplift the livelihoods of dairy farmers, and contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector. It’s an opportunity to create a sustainable and thriving dairy industry in Nigeria, benefiting both the economy and the well-being of its people.