Animal production experts in Nigeria are calling on the Ministry of Livestock Development to set up livestock research institutes in each of the country’s six geopolitical zones.
These institutes would focus on different types of animals and aim to improve livestock production through collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and farmers.
This request was made during the 50th national conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production (NSAP), held at the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The event was opened by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, and included scientific presentations, exhibitions, and contributions from government officials, academics, farmers, and traditional leaders.
The theme of the conference was “Exploring the Transformations in Animal Agriculture for Food Security, Wealth Creation and Economic Growth.”
In a joint communique signed by NSAP President Professor Olaniyi Babayemi and Secretary Dr Folasade Jemiseye, the society recommended several strategies to modernise animal farming in Nigeria.
These include adopting new technologies, improving local livestock breeds using advanced genetic tools, better feeding plans, and stronger disease prevention measures.
The experts also discussed precision feeding methods, the use of alternative feeds, locally produced vaccines, and rapid animal health diagnostics.
They urged the government to support the local production of research tools and offer tax incentives to researchers.
Climate-smart livestock practices and digital monitoring tools were also recommended to help farmers manage their operations more effectively.
Furthermore, the group emphasised the need to involve young people in agribusiness through training and digital livestock solutions, which they believe will help drive the transformation of the livestock sector in Nigeria.
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