FG Targets 7,000 Jobs Through Estate Ranching Initiative to Boost Livestock Sector

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to create about 7,000 direct jobs through a new estate-based ranching programme aimed at empowering youths and women, enhancing livestock productivity, and driving economic growth in rural communities.

The initiative was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development following a strategic engagement led by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha.

According to the ministry, the proposed estate-based livestock management model is designed to provide structured opportunities for young people and women to actively participate in ranch operations and other livestock-related businesses while promoting modern and sustainable animal production practices.

Speaking on the initiative, Maiha said the programme is expected to generate approximately 7,000 direct jobs and stimulate growth across key segments of the livestock industry, including the dairy, red meat, and leather value chains.

“The programme is projected to create about 7,000 direct jobs while supporting growth across the dairy, red meat and leather value chains,” the minister stated.

He explained that the project aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda to unlock the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector, particularly in dairy production, meat processing, feed and fodder development, and leather manufacturing.

Maiha also highlighted the need for innovative financing solutions tailored to the unique realities of livestock production, especially dairy farming, which often requires longer production cycles before investors can realise returns.

According to him, Nigeria’s dairy industry alone holds the potential to generate billions of dollars in economic value if properly developed and modernised. He therefore called for stronger partnerships among government agencies, financial institutions, and private sector investors to expand production capacity and improve industry standards.

As part of efforts to strengthen livestock infrastructure, the minister revealed that the ministry is pursuing the establishment of modern abattoirs in selected states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The proposed facilities, each capable of processing at least 1,000 cattle daily, are expected to improve meat quality and safety standards, reduce post-production waste, and strengthen the livestock value chain.

Maiha further emphasised the importance of feed and fodder development, describing animal nutrition as a critical factor in increasing livestock productivity and profitability.

To address existing challenges, the ministry is working to expand pasture cultivation across the country and establish feed resources closer to livestock production centres to reduce transportation costs and improve operational efficiency.

Meanwhile, the Public Relations Manager of Access Bank, Jonathan Oloniyo, expressed the bank’s willingness to partner with the ministry in advancing initiatives aimed at unlocking the enormous potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry.

The Federal Government believes the estate-based ranching programme will not only create employment opportunities but also contribute significantly to food security, industrial growth, and sustainable economic development.