The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha has inaugurated the Nestlé Nigeria Demonstration Dairy Farm at the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve in Gwagwalada, Abuja.
This initiative is part of Nestlé Nigeria’s Livestock Development Project, which aims to strengthen the local dairy industry and improve the livelihoods of milk producers.
During the event, on Thursday, February 6, 2025, the minister commended Nestlé Nigeria and its partners, 2Scale, CBI Innovations Limited, as well as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), for their collaboration in advancing the dairy sector.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nestlé Nigeria for this remarkable initiative. The establishment of this model dairy farm demonstrates Nestlé’s unwavering commitment to backward integration, fostering local agriculture, supporting Nigerian farmers, and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (1, 2, 8, 17).
“The dairy sector holds immense potential for Nigeria. As the Federal Government works tirelessly to diversify our economy, we recognise the critical role livestock production plays in creating jobs, generating income, and improving nutrition for our people.
“Furthermore, Nestlé’s investment aligns seamlessly with our national agenda for livestock development. The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is fully committed to creating an enabling environment for such investments to flourish,” Maiha stated.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives like this through policies that enhance infrastructure, access to finance, and veterinary services.
“We aim to address challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and the need for enhanced veterinary services. Through partnerships with the private sector and international development agencies, we strive to ensure the livestock subsector reaches its full potential,” he added.
Managing director of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Wassim Elhusseini described the event as a milestone in Nestlé’s commitment to advancing the local dairy industry.
“This event marks a significant step in our dedication to the local dairy industry through the Nestlé Nigeria Livestock Development Project, which is one of our ‘Creating Shared Value’ initiatives impacting individuals, families, communities and the planet.
“As a leading food and beverage company, Nestlé is dedicated to harnessing the power of food to enhance the quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come.”
Managing director of CBI Innovations Limited, Olusoji Apampa emphasised the broader significance of the project.
“This occasion not only marks the realisation of a vision but also heralds a transformative era in Nigeria’s dairy industry. At the heart of our venture is a commitment to excellence, sustainability and community.”
During a tour of the facility, the Minister acknowledged the modern infrastructure in place, which includes semi-automated milking systems, sustainable waste management practices and improved animal feed.
Since 2019, Nestlé Nigeria has invested over ₦1.8 billion to support pastoralists in and around the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve. The daily collection of milk has increased from an initial 200 litres on June 1, 2021, to an average of 6,000 litres at the Paikon Kore milk collection and cooling centre.
Over the past year and eight months, the animal population on the farm has expanded from 20 to 71, with artificial insemination playing a key role in breed improvement.
The project’s goal is to aggregate 30,000 litres of milk per day by November 2027 by enhancing local breeds and applying best practices in dairy farming.
