NIGERIA – The Indonesian government has committed to supporting Nigeria in achieving a 60% increase in milk production over the next five years.
This was disclosed by Dr. Usra Harahap, the Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State in Birnin Kebbi on Friday. According to Harahap, the visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the agricultural sector.
Harahap highlighted that this initiative builds on existing collaboration between Indonesia and Kebbi State, specifically in artificial insemination and embryo transfer programs.
He noted that these efforts will establish modern breeding facilities, a development fund, and milk and meat processing units.
“This collaboration seeks to implement sustainable pasture systems and significantly improve milk and meat production by 60% and 40% respectively within five years,” Harahap stated.
The ambassador emphasized Indonesia’s readiness to assist Nigeria in achieving self-sufficiency in animal production.
He further explained that the partnership would enhance livestock productivity and facilitate genetic improvements, particularly in Kebbi.
“The proposed technical cooperation in artificial insemination and embryo transfer reflects our commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and capacity building,” he added.
Harahap underscored the mutual benefits of this collaboration, expressing hope that it would elevate relations between the two countries.
He traced the history of diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Indonesia back to 1965 and revealed plans to establish an artificial insemination center in Kebbi under the Ministry of Animal Health and Fisheries.
According to him, the center will focus on livestock production, semen quality monitoring, and strengthening artificial insemination techniques.
“Our objective is to achieve self-sufficiency in meat and milk production while enhancing reproductive technologies for the broader African sub-region,” he noted.
In response, Governor Idris expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government for its support, particularly for sponsoring two Kebbi veterinary doctors for training in artificial insemination in Indonesia.
Represented by his deputy, Alhaji Umar Abubakar-Tafida, Idris remarked, “We are glad you sponsored their training and followed up to ensure its impact is cascaded locally. This marks the beginning of a very fruitful partnership.”
Idris highlighted that Kebbi boasts the highest number of veterinary doctors and the largest livestock population in Nigeria.
He acknowledged the critical role of Indonesia’s guidance in the state’s agricultural advancement and reiterated a request for further sponsorship of veterinary doctors for training on embryo transfer.
“We wish to extend our gratitude to the Indonesian government for guiding our people,” he stated.
The governor also noted that Kebbi leads in rice and wheat production, indicating the state’s agricultural potential.
He expressed optimism that the partnership would serve as a catalyst for sustainable agricultural growth and economic development for both nations.
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