The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha has called on Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria and its affiliated National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) to enhance their efforts in bridging the gap between research and market demands.
During a courtesy visit from a delegation of ABU led by vice chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, the minister emphasized the importance of academia producing solutions that directly address the challenges faced by livestock farmers, processors, and marketers.
“Research must be relevant, practical, and adaptable to the ever-evolving market demands. We cannot afford to have brilliant studies collecting dust on shelves while the livestock sector struggles with issues such as disease outbreaks, low productivity and supply chain inefficiencies,” Maiha stated.
He explained the crucial role of NAPRI in promoting superior livestock breeds, advising farmers, and developing a robust supply chain for commercial livestock products. “With 4,000 hectares of land, the institute has tremendous potential to lead in livestock research, seed propagation and breed improvement,” the minister remarked.
Maiha outlined several challenges facing the sector, including the need for more middle-level professionals, improved abattoir conditions, and increased commercialisation of research outputs. He urged NAPRI to collaborate closely with the ministry to tackle these issues.
“We need community animal health workers and numerous paraprofessionals to meet the demands of this sector. NAPRI must step up and take the lead in this effort,” said the minister.
He also encouraged NAPRI and the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) to adopt a commercial approach, pointing out, “Our national requirement for vaccines is 1.2 million doses, but we currently produce only 15 per cent. NVRI must not only meet national demand but also explore opportunities in the West African market.”
The minister announced several collaborations with private sector players, including JBS of Brazil, which has committed to investing $2.5 billion in Nigeria’s livestock value chain. This investment will include the establishment of six processing plants for beef, chicken and pig production.
“This is a significant opportunity for Nigeria to establish itself as a global player in the livestock sector. We need to ensure that NAPRI and other stakeholders are prepared to capitalise on these opportunities by providing the necessary feed, breeds, and expertise to sustain operations. We must act swiftly to build the infrastructure, expertise, and supply chains needed to meet these demands,” he stated.
Represented by the dean of veterinary medicine, Prof. Kabiru Junaid, the vice-chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) expressed pride in the Minister of Livestock Development, who is an alumnus of the university and congratulated him on his well-deserved appointment.
Highlighting ABU’s significant contributions to education and research, he noted that the institution hosts the only National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), a vital component of the new ministry.
In a statement by the ministry’s director of information and public relations, Ben Bem Goong the vice-chancellor expressed confidence in the minister’s leadership in realising the aspirations of millions of Nigerians who depend on livestock for their livelihoods. He also pledged the university’s support in advancing agriculture and livestock development under the government’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
Junaid extended an invitation for the minister to visit the university and NAPRI, stating, “The vice-chancellor has asked me to extend a categorical invitation to you, sir, to visit Ahmadu Bello University at your convenience, and during that visit, to also tour the National Animal Production Research Institute.”
