Federal Government has introduced a new National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, outlining its plan to expand Nigeria’s livestock sector from an estimated value of $32 billion to $74 billion by 2035.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to officials, the initiative is central to boosting food security, reducing import dependence, and expanding economic opportunities in rural communities.
Announcing the strategy at the 2025 Agriculture Summit Africa (ASA) in Abuja, Minister of Livestock Development Idi Maiha urged financial institutions to create specialised livestock desks to improve access to credit for pastoralists, ranchers, and processors. He said enhanced financing remains key to unlocking large-scale growth in the livestock value chain.
According to Maiha, meeting the 2035 target would strengthen domestic production of dairy, meat, and other animal products while positioning Nigeria as a leading livestock hub on the continent.
Sterling Bank, hosts of this year’s Summit, received commendation for its continued support of agriculture financing. The bank’s Group Head of Agric and Solid Minerals Finance, Olushola Obikanye, described the gathering as a platform where stakeholders “renew commitment and chart bold ideas for Africa’s food future,” stressing that agricultural progress would depend on collaboration and practical policy action.
Also at the event, Mohammed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), announced a new on-lending partnership with Sterling Bank. He said the collaboration aims to reduce lending risks and draw more private investment into high-impact agricultural segments.
Representatives from state governments, including the Yobe delegation standing in for Governor Mai Mala Buni, underlined the importance of mechanisation and innovation in building a resilient agricultural economy.
The Summit featured panel sessions on innovative financing, technology-driven food systems, inclusion of women and youth, climate resilience, and long-term sustainability across Africa’s agricultural sectors.
Industry leaders, exhibitors, and participants closed the event with renewed commitment to advancing growth across the continent’s food and livestock value chains.
