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By Daniel Adaji
The federal government has partnered the German Government through the German International Cooperation (GIZ) to establish grazing facilities across rural communities.
The partnership is expected to drive inclusive economic growth, improve food security and reduce herder-farmer conflict by encouraging modern and sustainable animal husbandry practices.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a German delegation led by Dr Karin Jansen, First Secretary and Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Abuja, on Saturday.
“The initiative will focus on rural-based local government areas. Deliberate efforts will be made in fodder production that will be taken to these livestock centres to encourage sedentary livestock production systems,” Maiha said.
He added that the grazing centres will be equipped with micro earth dams and boreholes to ensure year-round access to water and pasture.
“Emphasis will be placed on pasture and breed production to enhance quality dairy products,” he added.
The German representative, Jansen, stated that GIZ is already running several projects in Nigeria and is willing to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to strengthen livestock value chains.
She added that this approach could shift perceptions and promote long-term behavioural change among herders.
“Integrating livestock development into peace-building efforts is crucial. Establishing demonstration ranches in key states could also prove beneficial, allowing herders to experience modern alternatives firsthand,” Jansen said.
“The German government stands ready to deepen partnership with Nigeria in livestock production and its value chain,” she added.