FG Pushes Ranching Expansion, Eyes National Feed Network and Breeding Hubs

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector through ranching, with plans to expand feed production and establish pilot breeding hubs aimed at boosting productivity, reducing conflict and strengthening food security.

The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made this known during an inspection visit to Manchong Integrated Farms Limited in Nasarawa State on Thursday, December 19, 2025. The visit formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing assessment of private-sector driven models capable of supporting national livestock reforms.

Speaking after touring the facility, the Minister described the farm as a successful example of integrated ranching, combining pasture development, fodder production, water management and structured animal husbandry. He said the farm’s ability to sustain green pastures during the dry season demonstrated that ranching is both practical and sustainable in Nigeria.

“This farm clearly shows that with the right approach, ranching can thrive in our environment,” Maiha said. “It provides a strong case for why Nigeria must move toward modern livestock systems built on reliable feed supply and improved genetics.”

He revealed that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development plans to work closely with Manchong Integrated Farms to scale feed and fodder seed production, noting that the facility already supplies fodder to several northern states, including Jigawa and Yobe.

“Our intention is to build a dependable national feed network that supports livestock owners year-round, improves productivity and reduces pressure on open grazing,” the Minister stated.

Maiha also disclosed that the farm would be used as a pilot site for genetic improvement programmes, serving as a controlled environment for introducing and multiplying improved livestock breeds before wider national distribution.

“Any new genetic materials we plan to introduce will first be tested and developed here. This ensures quality control, adaptation and sustainability before scaling across the country,” he said.

In his remarks, the proprietor of Manchong Integrated Farms, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, said the initiative was designed to show that ranching is achievable and economically viable in Nigeria. He added that the model offers a long-term solution to farmer–herder conflicts while opening up new investment opportunities in the livestock value chain.

“Ranching brings order, peace and economic value to the sector,” Dogara said. “If replicated nationwide, it can change the narrative around livestock production and contribute significantly to national growth.”

He further noted that the global dairy and beef market is valued at about 2.5 trillion dollars, stressing that Nigeria has the population, land and expertise to capture a meaningful share of the market with the right investments.

Also speaking, a livestock business partner to the Botswana Embassy in Abuja, Mr. Clinton Agbo, described the farm as a strong platform for international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

“This facility has what it takes to host pilot projects with regional impact. Botswana is ready to support, Nigeria can lead, and Africa stands to gain from such collaboration,” he said.

Industry watchers say the visit signals a renewed focus on practical implementation, with ranching, feed security and genetic improvement emerging as key drivers of Nigeria’s livestock transformation agenda.