The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha and the German International Cooperation (GIZ) have pledged to establish grazing facilities in rural-based local government areas across Nigeria.
The minister made this known when a delegation led by the first secretary and head of cooperation at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany (GIZ), Dr. Karin Jansen paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
Maiha explained that deliberate efforts would focus on large-scale fodder production to supply these livestock centres, encouraging more sedentary livestock practices. He added that micro earth dams and boreholes would be constructed at the centres to guarantee year-round grazing for animals, while priority would be given to pasture development and improved breeding to boost the quality of dairy products.
In her remarks, Jansen noted that GIZ is implementing various projects across Nigeria and seeks closer collaboration with the Nigerian government, especially the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, to expand livestock production nationwide.
She stressed that integrating livestock development into peacebuilding is vital and described the proposed local government grazing reserves as a significant pilot initiative.
In a statement by the ministry’s director of information and public relations, Ben Bem Goong, Jansen said establishing demonstration ranches in key states would allow herders to experience modern livestock methods firsthand. This, she explained, could change perceptions and encourage sustainable practices over time.
She assured the minister that the German government remains committed to deepening its partnership with Nigeria to strengthen livestock production and develop its entire value chain.
