Animal Production Experts Call for Livestock Research Institutes Across Nigeria

Animal production experts from the Nigerian Society for Animal Production (NSAP) have urged the Ministry of Livestock Development to establish livestock research institutes specialising in specific animal species within each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

This proposal was made during the NSAP’s 50th national conference at the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State.

The experts stated that these institutes should actively engage researchers, policymakers, and livestock producers through regular workshops, seminars, and conferences as part of their core work.

The conference, themed “Exploring the Transformations in Animal Agriculture for Food Security, Wealth Creation and Economic Growth,” was opened by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman.

It included keynote speeches, scientific presentations, and exhibitions, with attendees from the government, academia, the private sector, farmers, and traditional rulers.

In a joint statement signed by NSAP President Professor Olaniyi Babayemi and Secretary Dr Folasade Jemiseye, the society spoke on the importance of adopting new technologies, supportive policies, and improving livestock breeds through modern genetic tools.

They also emphasised the importance of efficient livestock management, planned feeding, and effective disease control as crucial steps for progress.

The statement recommended the use of precision feeding methods, such as total mixed ration (TMR), alternative feed resources, rapid disease diagnostics, vaccines, and improved drug administration.

 It also called for stronger local vaccine production and expanded animal health extension services to boost the growth and production of eggs and milk.

NSAP further urged the promotion of climate-smart livestock farming, policies that encourage local production of research equipment, and tax incentives for research tools to improve farm management.

Finally, they emphasised the importance of youth-led agribusiness, digital livestock solutions, and skills training as vital components of Nigeria’s livestock transformation agenda.