By Hillary Asemota
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, in collaboration with the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the Gates Foundation, and other partners, convened a High-Level Feed and Fodder Inventory and Investment Forum at the Abuja Continental Hotel, on Thursday.
Delivering his keynote address, at the event, the Minister of Livestock Development, Mr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the initiative as a “game-changer” in feed sector management, affirming its potential to drive investment, improve productivity, and strengthen the resilience of livestock farmers nationwide.
“These efforts have culminated in a reliable and scientifically validated Feed Inventory and Fodder Balance Report, providing an accurate picture of our feed resources, gaps, and opportunities,” the Minister stated.
“More importantly, this initiative has equipped us with tools to proactively plan for feed security, enhance market opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of millions of livestock farmers,” he added.
The FMLD Feed Database and Interactive Dashboard, a digital platform designed to serve as a real-time hub for data on feed availability, quality, pricing, and distribution patterns across Nigeria, was also showcased.
It is expected to empower farmers, policymakers, researchers, and private sector stakeholders with the tools to make informed decisions and plan strategically.
“With this system in place,” the Minister added, “we must now focus on strengthening institutional capacity, promoting private sector engagement, and mainstreaming the use of this data at all levels of planning and implementation.
“Together, we can create a vibrant feed and fodder industry that not only supports national food security but also positions Nigeria as a livestock powerhouse in Africa.”
Director of AU-IBAR, Dr. Huyam Ahmed Salih, noted the critical need for evidence-based policymaking, stressing that “Only 9 out of 47 African member states have undertaken feed and fodder assessments. Without data, we risk reactive rather than proactive interventions,” she said.
Salih commended Nigeria for its leadership, underlining the integration of the feed data ecosystem into national systems and the mobilization of over US$248 million in investment for the sector.
The Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems (RAFFS) Project Coordinator at AU-IBAR, Dr. Sarah Ossiya, welcomed participants from across Africa, noting that the forum was taking place shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a national emergency on food security.
She highlighted the links between animal malnutrition and economic loss: “Stunted children today mean a stunted economy tomorrow.
“Africa’s GDP is estimated to be reduced by 10 percent due to malnutrition alone.”
In her remarks, Mrs. Winnie Lai-Solarin, Director of Ruminants and Monogastrics Development, called for the establishment of strategic feed reserves, hybrid pasture seed systems, and a stronger private sector role in export opportunities.
“Two days ago we had the validation of the National Feed and Food Policy document.
“We already have surplus feed in parts of Nigeria and demand from countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar. With proper infrastructure, Nigeria can emerge as a major exporter of feed and fodder, as we already have requests from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.”
The forum also witnessed the official handover of Nigeria’s comprehensive feed inventory report and data tools to the Minister. Delegations from Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and ECOWAS were in attendance, alongside key partners from research institutions and the private sector.
