FG, private sector partner to launch dairy training institute in Nigeria

NIGERIA – The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with private sector stakeholders, has announced plans to establish a Dairy Training Institute aimed at transforming the country’s dairy industry. 

The initiative is set to enhance skills and boost productivity in a sector critical to Nigeria’s agricultural growth.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made the announcement during a stakeholder meeting in Abuja. 

According to the minister, the institute will focus on addressing gaps in technical expertise that have long hindered the dairy sector. 

He emphasized the importance of skilled personnel to achieve a thriving dairy industry, noting that the facility will offer practical training in key areas such as pasture cultivation, feed management, animal husbandry, milk collection, and transportation.

“A thriving dairy sector requires skilled personnel, and this institute is a step in that direction,” Maiha said during the meeting.

A report by analysts highlighted the government’s collaboration with private companies, including NESTLÉ Nigeria, which has been praised for supporting local dairy development. 

The company’s investment in indigenous cattle breeds and sustainable milk production practices has been a key factor in this partnership. 

Maiha commended NESTLÉ’s contributions, stating that such efforts align with broader goals to reduce milk adulteration and improve the quality of dairy products available to Nigerians.

The Dairy Training Institute is expected to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s push for self-sufficiency in dairy production. 

With the country heavily reliant on imported dairy products, this move is seen as a strategic effort to strengthen local capacity. 

Experts suggest that the institute could also help reduce urban cattle movement by supporting commercial dairy farming in designated grazing reserves, a plan the government is actively pursuing.

Beyond training, the initiative reflects a growing trend of public-private partnerships in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. 

Earlier this year, the government and NESTLÉ launched a demonstration dairy farm in Gwagwalada, Abuja. The farm has already shown promise in empowering pastoralists and increasing milk yields. 

“This institute will build on such successes and provide a foundation for sustainable growth,” Maiha told stakeholders.

While specific details about the institute’s location and launch date remain undisclosed, industry players are eager to learn more. 

The government has assured that the facility will be equipped with modern tools and staffed by experts to ensure effective training. 

As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy and enhance food security, this collaboration marks a significant step toward a more robust and self-reliant dairy industry, promising benefits for farmers, consumers, and the nation as a whole.