Livestock's economic role in Nigeria

Livestock contributes 17% to Nigeria’s agricultural gross domestic product. The sector is a key part of the economy, particularly in the northern regions where traditional mobile pastoralism has long been practiced.

Jigawa State's cattle ranch project

Jigawa State, in northern Nigeria, has launched a project to develop three cattle ranches with an estimated investment of 4.5 billion naira (3.34 million USD). The announcement was made by Salim Abdulrahman, Commissioner for Livestock Development, in an interview with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) in Dutse.

Infrastructure and services at the ranches

Each of the three ranches will cover 510 hectares and can accommodate up to 3,000 households. They will include pastures, water points, veterinary clinics, livestock markets, schools, health facilities, and electricity supply equipment. The goal is to improve livestock management and reduce conflicts between farmers and herders.

National ranching projects in other states

On August 29, 2026, the federal government inaugurated its first national pilot project for ranching in Adamawa State’s Gongoshi grazing reserve. The initiative plans to develop activities such as dairy production, beef cattle, forage, and sheep and goat farming.

Federal government's expansion plans

In June 2026, the federal government announced a project in the Wase grazing reserve in Plateau State. The project plans to develop modern animal production facilities, including cattle fattening units, meat processing infrastructure, and dairy production facilities.

National ranching policy and new ministry

The multiplication of these initiatives is part of a national ranching policy supported by states, technical and financial partners, and the private sector. This policy aims to promote a structured livestock model through dedicated infrastructure to improve productivity and reduce livestock movements.

Institutional support and strategic planning

In July 2024, a federal ministry for Livestock Development was created. In April 2026, the Nigeria Livestock Master Plan: Livestock Sector Strategy (2026-2040) was published, developed with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). This plan outlines priorities such as strengthening animal health and improving value chains.

International collaboration and private investment

Abuja is seeking to mobilize international partners and private investors to fund the transformation of the livestock sector. In July 2026, the Ministry of Livestock Development met with the French Development Agency (AFD) to discuss cooperation on pilot ranches. Earlier that year, the ministry received an investment proposal from Consolidated Limited Investment Partners, interested in developing modern livestock hubs.

Economic goals for the livestock sector

The Nigerian government aims to increase the economic contribution of livestock, particularly in the value chains of red meat, dairy products, and leather. Authorities estimate the sector currently contributes about 32 billion dollars to the national economy and aim for 74 billion dollars by 2035 through improved productivity and processing activities.