FarmFresh sparks dairy revolution in Nigeria’s plateau region

NIGERIA – FarmFresh, a dairy company in Nigeria, is transforming the local dairy industry by boosting milk production and creating economic opportunities for farmers. 

The company’s innovative approach is turning the region into a hub of prosperity, tackling Nigeria’s long-standing reliance on imported dairy products, which cost the country between US$1.2 billion and US$1.5 billion annually. 

FarmFresh has introduced modern farming techniques and infrastructure to improve milk yields, a critical move in a country where local production meets less than half of the demand. 

According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the country consumes about 1.3 million metric tons of milk yearly, yet domestic output hovers around 700,000 metric tons, leaving a significant gap.

The company’s efforts focus on empowering smallholder farmers, many of whom are pastoralists managing low-yield cattle breeds. 

By providing training, better breeds, and access to milk collection centers, FarmFresh is helping these farmers increase productivity and income.

The impact is already visible in Plateau State, where farmers are seeing a shift from subsistence farming to a more commercial model. 

“We used to struggle with low milk from our cows, but now, with FarmFresh’s support, things are changing,” said Musa Ibrahim, a local farmer. 

The company has also invested in cold storage and transportation systems to reduce spoilage, ensuring milk reaches processing plants efficiently. 

This addresses a major challenge in Nigeria’s dairy value chain, where poor infrastructure often leads to waste.

Reported by industry experts, FarmFresh’s model could serve as a blueprint for other regions. The company’s work aligns with government efforts to cut import costs and boost food security. In 2019, the Central Bank restricted foreign exchange for milk imports, pushing for local solutions. 

FarmFresh’s success is a step toward that goal, though challenges remain, including insecurity and limited funding for scaling up.

Beyond economics, the initiative is uplifting communities. “This is not just about milk; it’s about giving our people a better life,” remarked Aisha Bello, a community leader in Plateau. 

The company plans to expand its reach, aiming to triple milk collection in the next five years. A report by Sahel Consulting highlights similar programs that have improved livelihoods, suggesting FarmFresh’s approach could inspire broader change.

As Nigeria grapples with a growing population and food demands, FarmFresh’s efforts signal hope. 

The dairy revolution in Plateau is proving that with innovation and collaboration, the country can turn its agricultural potential into reality, reducing dependence on foreign goods while fostering prosperity at home.

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