According to the federal government, 1.6 billion litres of milk are needed annually to meet demand for animal protein and livestock products.
Inaugurating the National Pasture Development Program (NAPDEP) in the Paikon Kore grazing reserve, Federal Capital Territory, on Tuesday, Mohammad Abubakar, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, revealed this.
The refocused attention on the livestock industry, particularly in pasture development, according to Mr. Abubakar, has improved productivity for the provision of food and human security as well as provided an affordable source of feed for ruminant livestock.
Approximately 95% of Nigeria’s ruminant production is managed primarily through the traditional pastoral system, it is important to note.
The main source of nutrition for the animals in this extensive system, according to him, was naturally occurring pastures.
In order to find feeds, water, and friendly grazing areas, herders and husbanders must be mobile.
“The result of this constant movement in search of pasture has negatively impacted the attainment of the animals’ optimal productivity and consistently harmed our country’s capacity for self-sufficiency,” the statement reads.
Additionally, it had an impact on “the needs for livestock products and animal protein, particularly our national target of 1.6 billion litres of milk per annum.”
“According to the FAO, we are currently ranked 15th globally for cattle, 5th globally for sheep, 3rd globally for goat, and 17th globally for camel farming.
The availability of feed and land for grazing in Nigeria’s high livestock-producing regions severely restrict the viability of the continuous extensive system of production.
“As a result, it is imperative that all industry participants give attention to addressing the enormous demand for pasture.
According to him, this will provide a fantastic opportunity to realise the full potential of the livestock industry and the growth of its intricate value chains.
He exhorted industry partners, in particular researchers, academics, local governments, international development organisations, and the private sector to support the National Pasture Development Programme (NAPDEP).
