By Ladi Gbegi
Nigerian Export Promotion Council ,NEPC, has stated that Nigeria has the potential to generate over N150bn annually through livestock exports, provided the country meets international market standards.
Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director of NEPC, shared this insight at the ongoing Value Chain Enhancement and Infrastructure Clinic for Effective Livestock Supply Chain and Innovative Market Orientation held in Abuja on Wednesday.
The clinic was organized by the Livestock Productivity Enhancement and Resilience Support Project ,L-PRES.
Represented by Mr. Macpherson Ileogben, the Deputy Director of Product Development at NEPC, Ayeni emphasized the need to strengthen the livestock value chain to capitalize on the vast opportunities within the sub-sector. This includes the establishment of processing plants for meat, dairy, and hides.
He proposed a multi-faceted approach that integrates research, infrastructure development, and policy reforms, while fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities. This strategy aims to address quality concerns and establish an animal traceability system, which is essential for accessing global markets.
Ayeni highlighted Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s leading producers and exporters of leather, with high demand in Europe, Asia, and North America. To meet global market demands and increase exports, he stressed the need for collective action from all stakeholders to resolve the sector’s challenges.
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing approximately 25% to the nation’s GDP and providing employment for a large portion of the population”, Ayeni noted. “The livestock sub-sector plays a crucial role in food security, offering protein, generating employment, and contributing to wealth creation. It is vital in the production of meat, dairy, and leather products. NEPC remains committed to promoting livestock exports in Nigeria”.
Mr. Aliyu Sheriff, the Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion in the Office of the Vice President, underscored the importance of the livestock sector to Nigeria’s economy and food security. He highlighted the sector’s significant contribution to agricultural GDP and its role in providing livelihoods for many Nigerians in rural areas. Sheriff also pointed out that the sector offers an avenue for economic diversification, foreign exchange earnings, and sustainable growth.
“We commend President Bola Tinubu for his full support of the livestock sector, especially through the creation of a dedicated ministry. This step opens up numerous opportunities for the country to tap into the sector’s potential.
“A delegation from Brazil visited just a month ago to explore investment possibilities in Nigeria’s livestock industry. These are crucial opportunities that can help diversify our economy and increase foreign exchange earnings.
“This is a chance to create jobs for many Nigerians and empower our youth”, he stated.
Mr. Ibrahim Usman, President of the Nigeria-Saudi Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of properly developing the livestock sector to generate substantial foreign earnings for the country.
He explained that the development of the livestock industry isn’t only vital for local consumption and food security but also crucial for export, which can significantly boost foreign exchange.
“The key to success lies in investment. The Federal Government alone cannot achieve this, nor can Nigerian investors alone. However, by opening the market internationally, particularly to countries like Saudi Arabia, which imports nearly all of its food, we can unlock significant opportunities.
“They need red meat, goats, and sheep, making access to the market a crucial aspect of the L-PRES project. This will bring in foreign exchange for Nigeria.
“Saudi Arabia imports most of its food, and Nigeria is an ideal source for exports. We need foreign exchange and fresh investment in agriculture, which will also enhance our internal food security.
“At the same time, we must create avenues for international investments to bring in new equipment and technology, boosting our human capital development”, he added.
