ABUJA – The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has thrown his weight behind the ranching model as a sustainable and scalable solution for Nigeria’s livestock sector, declaring it an essential component for economic growth and conflict resolution.
The Minister’s endorsement came on Sunday during an inspection tour of the Manchong Integrated Farms Limited in Nasarawa State, a facility he described as a “clear proof of concept” for modern ranching.
A Viable Model for National Scaling
Speaking after touring the expansive farm, Minister Maiha expressed satisfaction with its operations, which include modern livestock production, advanced feed and fodder development, and systematic genetic resource management. He noted that despite the ongoing dry season, the farm maintained lush green pastures supported by natural irrigation.
“The farm is a lighthouse and a pilot that has demonstrated beyond doubt that this can be done,” Maiha stated. He explained that ranching entails confining animals within a defined space with adequate feed, water, and professional management—a model already working successfully at Manchong.
The farm currently houses over 300 cattle across major beef and dairy breeds and produces a surplus of high-quality feed annually.
Strategic Partnerships for Nationwide Impact
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development announced plans for a strategic partnership with Manchong Farms, focusing on two critical areas:
1. Feed and Fodder Production: The farm, which already supplies fodder to states like Jigawa and Yobe, will be developed into a national hub. Minister Maiha envisions a “national fodder supermarket” where small-scale livestock owners can order feed remotely.
2. Genetic Improvement Program: The facility will serve as Nigeria’s pilot centre for new breeding programmes. “For most of the genetic materials we intend to introduce into the country, we will first work with this farm to produce offspring that can then be multiplied and propagated across Nigeria,” the Minister disclosed.
Addressing Conflict and Unlocking Economic Potential
The farm’s owner, Yakubu Dogara, established the operation to demonstrate that ranching is a practical solution to Nigeria’s recurring farmer-herder conflicts.
“We wanted to show our people that ranching is not a far-fetched idea. It is doable,” Dogara said. “If we replicate this model across Nigeria, we can address insecurity, promote peace and unlock massive economic opportunities.”
He highlighted the sector’s enormous potential, noting that the global dairy and beef market is valued at approximately $2.5 trillion. With northern Nigeria holding over 70% of the nation’s livestock population, capturing just 5–10% of this market could translate to about $25 billion in annual revenue.
International Recognition and Collaboration
The farm’s model has attracted international interest. Clinton Agbo, a livestock business partner to the Botswana Embassy in Abuja, described Manchong as “an excellent centre suitable for international collaboration.”
“This farm is an ideal place to commence a pilot scheme,” Agbo stated, revealing that the Botswana High Commissioner views the potential partnership as a “Pan-African effort where Botswana can support and Nigerians can lead, for the benefit of Africa.”
Minister Maiha commended the farm’s hands-on approach, signaling a shift in government policy engagement from conference halls to direct field interaction with practicing farmers.
