The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has revealed plans to establish a Dairy Training Institute to strengthen capacity across Nigeria’s dairy value chain.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha disclosed this during a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, emphasising the need for technical training to bridge knowledge gaps in dairy farming. He explained that the institute would equip both aspiring and practicing dairy farmers with essential skills.
“This training institute will provide hands-on knowledge in pasture cultivation, feed and fodder management, dairy animal husbandry, health management, animal breeding, milk collection, preservation and transportation. If we want a thriving dairy sector, we must empower those working at the heart of it,” Maiha said.
He commended NESTLÉ Nigeria for its commitment to developing the local dairy industry, particularly its efforts to promote indigenous cattle breeds. He also stressed the need to curb milk adulteration, adding that the government was taking steps to revamp grazing reserves to reduce uncontrolled cattle movement, especially in urban areas.
“If we are serious about commercial dairy farming in Nigeria, we must put the right structures in place. That includes proper grazing reserves, organised milk collection systems and stronger regulations against milk adulteration,” Maiha said.
Speaking on behalf of NESTLÉ Nigeria, its corporate communications, public affairs and sustainability lead, Victoria Ndee Uwadoka said, “Between 2021 and 2024, we aggregated over 1.65 million litres of milk.”
The company operates a modern dairy demonstration farm in the Paikon Kore grazing reserve in Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT, which the minister commissioned on February 6, 2025.
