FG plans major livestock, dairy hub at Obudu cattle ranch

NIGERIA – Governor Bassey Otu has commended the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Obudu Cattle Ranch into a major hub for livestock and dairy production in Nigeria. 

The governor, represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, made the remarks during a visit by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, stating that the initiative is a welcome development that aligns with Cross River State’s agricultural goals. 

He highlighted Obudu’s unique climate, biodiversity, and vast landmass as key advantages for large-scale livestock farming and dairy production.

According to Governor Otu, global economic shifts present an opportunity for Nigeria to expand its agricultural exports and attract agribusiness investments. 

He urged stakeholders to embrace agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, moving from subsistence farming to large-scale commercial production. 

“Nigeria’s economic future depends on our ability to fully harness our agricultural and livestock resources. Large-scale investments in agriculture will enhance food security, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings,” he stated.

A report by the state government indicates that Cross River has remained committed to agricultural expansion, citing its thriving cocoa sector as an example of strategic investment in agriculture. 

Governor Otu called for increased collaboration between the public and private sectors to modernize the agricultural value chain and attract investment into rural communities. 

He emphasized that development efforts should be sustainable and inclusive, ensuring that local communities benefit directly from government initiatives. 

“We seek increased investments in local communities to ensure that development is sustainable and inclusive. As international funding from institutions like the World Bank begins to support large-scale agricultural transformation, Cross River State must be a priority beneficiary,” he added.

Reported by government sources, the minister acknowledged that Nigeria’s ₦33 trillion livestock industry remains vastly underutilized, emphasizing that modernization efforts must focus on improved livestock management, disease control, and rural infrastructure expansion. 

He described Obudu Cattle Ranch as a key asset in the Federal Government’s livestock transformation agenda, with the potential to become a major player in Nigeria’s beef and dairy industry. 

He further revealed that Nigeria has secured a US$2.5 billion investment commitment from Brazilian investors to drive livestock sector innovation and expansion.

According to the minister, achieving success in these initiatives will require strong partnerships between federal and state governments, traditional rulers, and pastoralist organizations. 

He stressed that government policies must translate into tangible benefits for local communities, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive. 

The revitalization of Obudu Cattle Ranch presents a unique opportunity for economic transformation in Cross River State, aligning with the Federal Government’s renewed focus on agriculture and livestock development. 

Governor Otu’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with federal authorities and private investors to fully harness the state’s agricultural potential, delivering long-term benefits for farmers, entrepreneurs, and the broader economy.