The Nigerian government has unveiled a plan to invest 2,500 billion naira (approximately $3.2 billion) in reforming the country's livestock sector over the next five years. This initiative is part of a comprehensive national plan designed to address the challenges within the livestock industry, which contributes about 9 percent to the country's agricultural gross domestic product. The funding for this reform plan is expected to be drawn from various sources, including annual budgets, contributions from key ministries, support from local and international investors, and financial assistance from the Central Bank of Nigeria. The plan encompasses a range of interventions, including the establishment of a Federal Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, improvements in livestock production and productivity, conflict resolution, policy and program reviews, and capacity building.
This significant investment comes as a response to ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers in Nigeria, which have had a substantial economic impact. The reform plan is aimed at reshaping the livestock sector, promoting sustainable development, and addressing the recurring conflicts, which have caused estimated annual economic losses of $13.7 billion. In a related development, Egypt's Ministry of Agriculture has allocated $7.09 million to the National Veal Project, part of the Decent Life presidential initiative focused on enhancing living conditions in rural Egypt. The project aims to increase red meat and dairy production, ensure price stability, and provide support to small-scale breeders and young graduates. Overall, these initiatives in both Nigeria and Egypt aim to boost the livestock sector, enhance rural livelihoods, and contribute to food security.