I-Youth, Agrihub Nigeria empower youths to modernize dairy farming in Adamawa

NIGERIA –  500 youths in Adamawa State, Nigeria, have been equipped with technical and business skills to enhance the dairy sector, according to a report by the Youth in Agribusiness unit of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). 

The initiative, developed in collaboration with Sebore International Farms, seeks to provide employment opportunities for young people while addressing key challenges in dairy farming.

According to the report, the participants, who are the second cohorts of the program, have been trained to operate in different capacities within the dairy value chain. 

About 100 of them received training as veterinary service providers to offer basic health services to dairy farmers and respond to cattle health emergencies. 

Additionally, 300 youths were trained in dairy production and will supply milk to an established market in the state, while others specialized in feed and fodder production to ensure cattle have access to nutritious food, improving milk yields.

Adetola Adenmosun, a representative of the Youth in Agribusiness unit, emphasized the importance of the initiative in addressing challenges faced by dairy farmers. 

“Access to healthy cattle, quality feed, and reliable veterinary services remain major concerns for dairy farmers. This program is designed to bridge these gaps and create sustainable opportunities for young people in the dairy sector,” she stated.

According to the organizers, the initiative aims to modernize traditional dairy farming practices by integrating improved production techniques and strengthening the dairy value chain. 

The collaboration with Sebore International Farms has facilitated hands-on training and mentorship, ensuring that the beneficiaries are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the sector. 

The program also seeks to enhance the productivity and sustainability of local dairy farming, reducing dependency on imported dairy products.

A report by Agrihub Nigeria indicated that the trained youths have already begun implementing their skills in various communities, contributing to increased milk production and improved animal health. 

Some of the newly trained veterinary service providers have started working closely with farmers, offering essential healthcare services for their cattle. 

One of the participants, speaking on the impact of the training, remarked, “This opportunity has changed my life. I now have the skills and resources to build a stable career in dairy farming while helping my community.”

The initiative is expected to have long-term benefits for the dairy industry in Adamawa State by creating a skilled workforce capable of improving productivity and addressing critical challenges in the sector. 

Organizers have expressed optimism that the program will serve as a model for similar interventions in other regions, fostering youth involvement in agriculture and strengthening Nigeria’s dairy industry.

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