How to Start Cattle Farming in Nigeria [Starter Guide]

Cattle farming in Nigeria is a lucrative business that can provide a steady source of income for those who are willing to put in the hard work. In addition to providing beef, dairy products, and hides, cattle farming also offers job opportunities and can help to improve the economic conditions of rural areas.

you will soon find out that cattle farming is a profitable business and you can venture into the business as long as you follow the steps outlined and discussed in this informative piece.

How to Start Cattle Farming in Nigeria

Table of Contents

Step 1: Business Plan

It is important to start by making a plan which can be outlined and discussed in a business plan. Business plan is the blueprint of how you want to operate your business including the financial resources needed to establish and run the cattle farm.

1. Executive Summary

2. business description.

The business plan provides an overview of our business concept, target market, competitive advantage, and financial objectives. Cattle Farming is a business that focuses on raising and selling cows, bulls, and calves.

3. Market Analysis

This section of the business plan provides an overview of the current market conditions for the cattle farming industry. This aspect assesses the competitive landscape, identify key trends, and analyze the current demand for our products and services.

4. Marketing Plan

5. management plan.

This section of the business plan outlines our management strategy. To identify key personnel and outline their responsibilities. Also, to develop a plan for succession in the event that a key personnel leaves the company.

6. Operational Plan

This section of the business plan outlines our operational strategy. Identify suppliers, develop processes and procedures, and outline our production plan.

7. Financial Plan

8. risk analysis.

This section of the business plan outlines the potential risks associated with our business.

Step 2: Raise Capital

Raising capital for cattle farming can be a difficult task, especially for small farmers. However, there are a number of resources that can help farmers access the funds they need to start or expand their operations.

The most common sources of capital for cattle farming are government grants, loans, and private investors. Government grants are typically the most accessible source of funding and are often available to farmers who meet certain criteria.

Loans from banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions can also be used to finance cattle farming operations. Likewise, private investors can often provide capital in exchange for a percentage of ownership in the farm.

Step 3: Secure A Good Location

Securing a good location for cattle farming is essential for the successful operation of any ranch. It is important to consider the climate, soil quality, access to water, and availability of pasture and feed when selecting the location.

The climate of the region can have a major impact on the success of a cattle farm. Temperatures that are too hot or too cold can affect the health of the cattle, so it is important to choose a location with an appropriate climate. The amount of precipitation in the area should also be considered, as dry areas are not ideal for cattle farming.

Soil Quality

Access to water.

Cattle need a reliable source of water for drinking, so access to a water source should be a primary consideration when selecting a location for a cattle farm. Access to water can be provided by either a nearby river, lake, or well.

Pasture and Feed

The availability of pasture and feed is also an important factor in selecting a location for cattle farming. The area should have ample pasture for grazing and plenty of feed for the cattle to eat. The quality of the feed is also important, as it will affect the health and productivity of the cattle.

Step 4: Build Farm Structure

The first step in building a farm structure for cattle farming is to determine the location of the structure. Consider factors such as available land, access to water, and the surrounding environment.

Once the location has been determined, the next step is to choose the type of structure. Options include open-air barns, enclosed barns, hoop barns, and free-standing shelters.

Once the type of structure has been chosen, the next step is to determine the size of the structure. Consider the number of cattle that will be housed in the structure as well as the size of the individual animals. The amount of space needed will vary depending on the type of structure chosen.

The next step is to purchase or build the structure. If purchasing a structure, be sure to choose one that is designed specifically for housing cattle. If building a structure, be sure to use materials that are strong and durable, such as heavy-duty steel or wood.

Step 5: Get The Essential Tools Ready

Getting the essential tools ready for cattle farming is an important part of setting up a successful operation. Cattle farming requires a variety of tools and equipment to ensure that the animals are properly cared for and managed. Here are some of the essential tools that should be on hand before starting a cattle farm.

1. Feeding Equipment

This includes feed troughs, bales, hay racks, and any other equipment needed to provide proper nutrition to the cattle.

2. Health Care Supplies

3. cattle handling equipment.

This includes chutes, head gates, scales, and anything else needed to safely move and handle the cattle.

4. Fencing Materials

This includes posts, wire, and other materials needed to build a secure perimeter for the farm.

5. Barns and Shelters

6. watering equipment.

This includes troughs, hoses, and other supplies to ensure that the cattle have access to clean water.

7. Breeding Equipment

This includes semen collection and artificial insemination tools to ensure successful breeding.

Step 6: Acquire and Stocked Cattle Breed

Each of these breeds has its own unique characteristics, which can make them better suited for certain environments, production systems, and markets.

When deciding which cattle breeds to acquire for a cattle-farming business in Nigeria, it is important to consider the different characteristics of each breed as well as the local climate and market preferences. This will help ensure that the business is profitable and successful.

Step 7: Stock Cattle Breed

Step 8: cattle care and maintenance, feeding and watering.

Cattle need a balanced diet of forage, grains, minerals, and vitamins to maintain their health and productivity. Forage should make up the majority of their diet, and can include hay, silage, and pasture.

Pest And Disease Control

Cattle farm cleaning.

Keeping the cattle farm clean is essential for the health and safety of the animals. This includes cleaning out water troughs and feeders, cleaning and sanitizing stalls, and disposing of manure properly. Additionally, the barn should be regularly inspected for any signs of pests or disease.

Vaccination

Step 9: breeding.

For breeding to take place, when the cow is in their heat period, put the bull along with the cow so that mating can take place which then in turn leads to the breeding of offspring for market purposes.

Step 10: Marketing Your Cattle

Largest cattle farm in nigeria.

Dandali Ranch is the largest cattle farm in Nigeria. Located in Kano State, the ranch covers an area of over 24,000 hectares and is home to more than 16,000 cattle. The ranch also includes a feedlot, breeding program, and veterinary clinic. Dandali Ranch is dedicated to providing high-quality beef to Nigerians and the rest of the world.

Cow Farming In Nigeria Nairaland

How to start a cattle farm with no money, cow rearing business plan.

A cow rearing business plan should include objectives, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational plans. Objectives should include desired earnings, number of cows to be reared, and desired sustainability. Marketing strategies should include identifying potential customers, developing a pricing structure, and creating a marketing plan.

Financial projections should include start-up costs, operational costs, and expected returns. Operational plans should include facility requirements, feed and nutrition, and health and safety protocols.

Cattle Farm App

The app also allows farmers to connect with their local community and access local resources, such as veterinary services, feed suppliers, and other farmers.

How Much Is A Calf In Nigeria

A calf in Nigeria typically costs between 40,000 and 80,000 Naira.

How To Start Cow Farming In Nigeria

1. research, 2. resources.

Obtain resources such as land, equipment, and supplies necessary for cow farming.

Choose a cow breed suitable for the climate and terrain of the area.

4. Infrastructure

6. marketing.

Develop a marketing plan for selling or distributing your cow products.

How Profitable Is Cattle Farming In Nigeria

How to start farming cattle.

Begin by researching the type of cattle you want to raise and the local regulations. Buy or rent land suitable for cattle farming and purchase quality cattle. Provide adequate fencing to keep your cattle in and predators out.

How To Begin Cattle Farming

How to start cattle farming in ghana, 2. financing, 3. land acquisition.

Obtain land suitable for raising cattle.

5. Breeding

Determine which breeds are best suited for your environment and acquire them.

Research and purchase appropriate feed for your cattle.

7. Health Management

8. marketing, how to start cattle farming in pakistan, how much does it cost to start cattle farming.

In order to start cattle farming in Nigeria, individuals need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits, source quality cattle, secure adequate housing and fencing, and develop a business plan. Additionally, farmers should consider taking classes and workshops to learn more about cattle farming and the local market. With the right resources and knowledge, cattle farming in Nigeria can be a profitable venture.

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  • Fri. Jun 21st, 2024

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Cattle Farm Business Plan in Nigeria (2024 DOC)

Cattle farming business plan in Nigeria

Cattle Farm Business Plan in Nigeria 2024 Feasibility Study

Cattle farm business plan in Nigeria – Cattle farming as well as cattle fattening business in Nigeria talks about cow rearing business in Nigeria, it comes in a PDF or Word DOC file format. Now when the question of cattle farms in Nigeria or cattle rearing in Nigeria comes up, people only relate it to the Nigerian Fulanis, but the truth is, although the Fulanis are known for cattle rearing in Nigeria, however, the business in general can be done by anyone.

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With the cattle farm business plan in Nigeria, you get to appreciate how lucrative this aspect of agriculture is and how viable it can be if properly invested upon. This entails having to provide the necessary tools that will aid you in the venture of farming cattle. Over a period now, we’ve been discussing business plans on various agricultural ventures, from pig farming business plan to goat farming business plans , I’ve also discussed how you can start any of these business farms .

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The truth of the matter now is that the agricultural sector of the economy is a very vast sector of the economy and so many areas are yet to be harnessed. Interest in agriculture covers several areas, and these areas includes some specialized areas such as our topic cattle rearing which is under livestock farming, we have poultry farming for birds, we also have crop production which is under farming, then you also have seedling that involves farming of maize etc.

However, our focus will be on the cattle farming business of agriculture. One of the major factors that can make you to succeed in any venture is adequate knowledge of the venture, that is also applicable to cattle farming business as it requires you acquiring the needed knowledge not just the basic ones since you will need to understand the financial projection involved.

The financial projection of the venture is as important as the business itself. You get to know things like how much you need to invest as it regards business space, business equipment etc, this will enable that you do not loose your money in the business venture.

Agricultural business has always been big, you have bring into the equation the equation functions such as the equipment needed, land space since it involves agriculture, then funding the farming project… other things required includes employing all the necessary expertise such as Veterinary doctor for your animals, a feed expert, these are somewhat of a basic things you need to have in order for your Cattle farming business plan to become effective, in fact your plan will become a success and your cattle farming business a model for others.

How Lucrative Is Cattle farming Business In Nigeria?

One of the questions people ask before going into a particular business is the viability of the business, trust me, it is never wrong to make such inquiries before going ahead with the plans of setting up your own business. Truth is, businesses thrive on the profits made, hence it is important to know if the business is lucrative .

In the case of cattle farming in Nigeria and how lucrative it can be, a simple check on the rate of cow meat consumption in Nigeria is a testament of how lucrative the business can be, a report once revealed few years back that in Lagos of Nigeria alone, about a hundred thousand (100,000) cows are slaughtered on a daily basis. By that figure, when you check how many are killed in a month in Lagos state, a month of 31 days three point one million (3,100,000) cows are slaughtered while three million in 30 days months, use the same figure and check for a year for Lagos state alone, you’ll be amazing and mind you festive periods are not included.

The fact is that the craze for cow meat is high and that is why the demand is always in a very large quantities. Unlike pig meats that is forbidden in the north, cow meat is one meat that is acceptable in all part of the country, in fact in every market cow meat has the largest portion of any kind of meat market. Enugu Military market kills over fifty (50) cows every week, depending on the daily demand.

Cattle farming business is so lucrative that not just the meat is sold for financial gain, there are other cattle produce that can as well be financially rewarding, they include the following;

  • Cow feces for manure etc

Most of the milk used in beverages production are gotten from cows, the hides are considered the toughest and the most preferred in the making of leather bags, shoes, clothing, belts etc. Other useful stuffs gotten from cow are the horns and bones which can be sued in the manufacturing of household items such as spoons, ceramic plates and cups etc.

A well written feasibility study on cattle farming in Nigeria will help you in identifying those aspect of the business that needs harnessing and why profit maximization is the goal of the business.

Ranching Or Herding Which Is Better?

In the Nigerian political space, there has been the debate over the best adaptable method of rearing cattle, it has been established that cattle business is lucrative and that you need a cattle farming business plan in Nigeria in order to make head way, however, it is also important to make a choice on the type of rearing you want, there are two types of cattle rearing, one is by ranching and the other is by herding.

In Nigeria today, herding is the most popular method of rearing cattle and it is mostly done by the fulanis in Nigeria.

Herding method of rearing cattle – Common amongst the fulanis, this is a system of rearing animals were the herdsman will be moving from one location to another, in this system of rearing, a herder can actually travel on foot with the cattle from Sokoto state to Kogi state all with the aim of finding green pastures. This system of rearing comes with its advantages as well as its disadvantages;

Advantages Of Herding Method Of Cattle farming

  • There will be no need to build a ranching facility since the cattle does not have a permanent home.
  • There won’t be need to be buying feed for the cattle since the essences of moving from one place to another is to seek different pastures for the cattle.
  • Won’t have to hire personnel and experts.
  • All you need to do is buy the cattle and hand it over the herders after a fee has been agreed.

Disadvantages Of Herding Method Of Cattle farming  

  • The cattle becomes so stress that it might not be able to produce enough milk and also it becomes skinny due to long distance trek
  • The cattle easily falls sick due to long distance trek and the unavailability of a Doctor around or a hospital where treatment can be carried out.
  • The cattle will not be as productive as it should be due to the stress of long distance trek, and it can even affect the price of the cow.
  • The cattle fattening technique might not work on these cow because it barely has time to rest.

The truth is that in cattle farming in Nigeria , cattle herding for a very long time has been viewed as the best method to adapt when it comes to cattle farming business, reason for this has been stated in our advantages of the system, however, in recent years, the headers and farmers clashes has increased and it has given the question of choosing ranching which is considered the 21 st century method of cattle farming. I wouldn’t advise anyone to choose herding today in Nigeria, because the government might be forced into banning it thereby allowing peace to reign.

Ranching method of rearing cattle – A lot Nigerians have argued that ranching should be only way of rearing cattle rearing, the reasons are obvious, first is that it will end the continuously bloody clash between farmers and herders. In this system of farming cattle, you will be expected to spend money in building a ranch, purchasing as well as transporting the fodder, employ staff who will manage the ranch, in essence transportation business becomes important in this regard.

Advantages Of Ranching Method Of Cattle farming

  • In ranching, you can implement the cattle fattening business plan idea in order to make yours more productive.
  • Cattle reared through ranching are said to be more fertile and productive
  • You can easily identify the cattle that is sick and you can quickly engage the services of a vet.

Disadvantages Of Ranching Method Of Cattle farming

There is a cost implication of setting you a ranch. This includes the following;

  • Building the ranch
  • Purchasing the cattle fodder
  • Hiring staff for running and maintaining the ranch.

Factors To Consider While Setting Up

  • Choose a preferred cattle rearing method
  • Write a business plan
  • Research on new market potentials
  • Chose a location to build your ranch
  • The number of staff to hire
  • Consider the security involved
  • Know your competitors
  • Register your business at CAC

Writing A cattle Cattle Farm Business Plan

Here are some of the things you need to have in order to get going;

Background of The Business : Having a background knowledge of how the cattle farming business works gives you an insight on what should be included in your cattle farming business plan. Take for example, the knowledge that beef consumption amounted to 380 000 tons in 2014 and there is a possible growth in this regard of up to 1.3 million tons by 2050, an information like this can guide you into making the required investment, owning to the fact that meat market has a poor infrastructure. Slaughter of livestock and fresh meat trade is concentrated in the public open markets without packing and refrigeration, resulting in a significant reduction in the quality and shelf life. This necessitates the need for commercial and industrial companies that are able to solve the problems of the meat market and provide a mass public access to high quality meat at a reasonable price. Information like this could ensure that you get a proper survey on how you go about your set up.

Vision, Mission, Objective & Values of the Business : As a vision what do you hope to achieve with your cattle farm business. It is important to ensure that your goal should revolve around become a renowned distributor of quality beef in Nigeria, with the aim of closing the deficit in beef as well as ensuring quality products.

Mission : You vision has been outlined, now what is your mission? It will be great to factor in the value chain of  breeding as well as fattening your young animal to fattening, getting a HACCP-compliant abattoir slaughter and processing house for the beef meat, ensure that you have a great environment for animal meat processing etc ensure that your cattle Farm business has its Core Values is entrenched in – Excellence, Creativity, Transparency, Innovation , Customer Satisfaction etc

Assurance on Quality Product And Services : As stated earlier, the provision of environmental friendly meat house/abattoir serves as one of the services in question, in terms of products, there is a long list of products which are categorized into the main product and the by-products, these products are the main stay of the business, apart from the  beef/meat, there is the milk, hide, cheese etc

Market Analysis : The objective for market analysis is to determine the ideal customer segment that are willing and are able to pay for your Farm beef, milk, hide/skin as well as other main products and by-products. This will also include an identification of their location, ideal price, product packaging and method of product delivery.

Our idea is to walk back from the ideal customer’s situation to offer a product that perfectly meets their need. A copy of our research questions is available in the appendix.

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Livestock Farming in Nigeria: How to Start in 2024

Livestock Farming in Nigeria is a very lucrative agribusiness and one of the attractive features of this type of farming is the diverse options available.

In this post, we have provided you with the necessary steps you need to take when starting your livestock farming business.

Livestock Faming in Nigeria: Beginner’s Guide

Livestock Farming in Nigeria

First, we will provide the information you need to start any of the three most popular livestock farming options in Nigeria.

1. Goat farming

Goat farming is one of the most attractive types of livestock farming. And here are some of the reasons you should consider this type of farming

  • It requires relatively low capital but yields high profits.
  • Goat meat consumption in Nigeria is quite high
  • Apart from the meat, items like shoes, bags, belts and other leather-base materials are made from goat skin because it is a very good source of leather
  • Goats are easy to feed and manage as they require minimal supervision
  • Goats reproduce a lot which means continuity for your business
  • Goat offal can be used for drug production
  • The faeces of goat can serve as an excellent source of manure.

Here are some of the things you need to know before you start your goat farming business.

There are different breeds of goat available in the Nigerian market and your choice of breed will be dependent on your goals. You can also rear multiple breeds however; raising multiple breeds is an option that requires larger capital.

  • Location/housing

The most suitable place to consider for goat farming is an area closest to pasture. The land should be spacious and fenced. Also, you’ll need a shelter for the goats so they can be shielded from harsh weather like rain and sun.

Pasture is the best form of food for goats but there are other healthy food options like specially formulated goat feeds. You can also grow your own pasture or make arrangements for your goats to graze in a nearby land. You could also either buy feeds or manufacture them depending on how much you can afford.

  • Medical care

Goats need utmost care especially the females. Consequently, medical care should be ready available. You could have a vet doctor that comes to assess the goats on a weekly or monthly basis. This will prevent the spread of diseases which could very easily end your farm.

Beyond rearing the goats, there is also the need to have a marketing plan in place so that you can readily sell your goats or goat product when it is time.

  • Farm workers

You should consider employing a number of people to assist you depending on how big your farm is. It could be in form of permanent staffs or staffs that come in once or twice a week to assist.

2. Poultry farming

Poultry farming is one of the most popular livestock farming options in Nigeria. In many cases, commercial poultry farming in Nigeria has made many people millionaire and it is not so difficult setting up your own poultry farm.

There are several reasons why you should consider starting a poultry farming business in Nigeria. One of the most popular reasons is the provision of egg and meat for consumption by the poultry birds.

Also, there is a large market for poultry products in Nigeria although it can be quite competitive because of the abundance of poultry farmers in the country.

Another interesting advantage is that there are no tribal, regional or religious taboos about consuming poultry products like eggs and meat and almost everyone likes poultry eggs and meat.

Overall, poultry farming is a great business idea with very good return on your investment ROI ratio. Anyone can start raising poultry in domestic and commercial purpose.

Here are the steps to take in setting up your poultry business.

  • Farm Location

Generally, a plot of land of 120 x 60 square meters is suitable for setting up a medium sized poultry farm in Nigeria. However, the size of land depends on the number of birds you want to raise and the farming system.

Acquiring land is the most expensive part of commercial poultry farming business in Nigeria. You can buy the land far from the town or big cities but you need to select an environment that is pollution free. You can buy the land in a rural area because land and labour are highly available in a cheaper rate in these areas. However, when selecting the land, bear in mind that there should be adequate supply of water and the land should be free from animals and predators. The land should also be close to the market and accessible to major road networks.

There are three profitable systems of raising poultry.

  • Extensive system,
  • Semi-intensive system and
  • Intensive poultry farming system
  • Poultry Breeds

There are also three types of breed which are very suitable for commercial poultry farming in Nigeria. You can select any for your farm. The modern poultry breeds are highly productive. Modern layers produce more eggs than traditional breeds and broilers grow faster than ever. Selecting the right kind of breed for commercial production is very important. The three types of commercial poultry breeds are described below.

Layers: Layer poultry breeds are used for commercial egg production. If you want to produce eggs commercially, select highly productive layer breeds.

Broilers: Broiler poultry are very fast growing poultry breeds. Generally, they gain slaughter weight within a very short time by consuming certain amount of food. And they are used for commercial meat production.

Cockerels: Cockerels are another type of meat productive poultry breeds. Cockerel has a special demand for some people. Generally, they grow slower than other breeds. But very hardy and can survive and adopt themselves in almost all types of environment.

Good housing is very important for commercial poultry farming in Nigeria. Housing system depends on the poultry breeds and farming method. Housing design varies in accordance with various types of poultry raising methods. Follow the tips mentioned below while building suitable house for your poultry birds.

The poultry house must have to be well ventilated because a well-ventilated system keeps the bird healthy and productive. You can create a suitable system that allows sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house.

You can also try to make the house north to south faced. If you are building numerous poultry houses, the distance between one house to the other should be about 40 feet.

Before bringing the chick inside the farm, clean the house and entire farm area properly. If you are using the deep liter system, you should clean it regularly. You can use cheap materials like wooden or rice bran for making liter.

Keep the feeding and watering equipment in proper distance from each other according to the number of birds and farming systems and always clean all equipment regularly.

Ensure that, your birds are free from all types of animals, insects or predators inside the house.

The poultry house should be located in a calm and quiet place free from pollution and noise.

Good quality food keeps the bird healthy and highly productive. Always provide adequate amount of food according to the number and age of poultry birds. Along with feeding good foods, always supply sufficient amount of clean and fresh water according to the daily demands of poultry.

  • Care and Management

Poultry birds are very sensitive and may be caught by diseases easily. Generally, they suffer by various types of viral, bacterial, fungal, nutritional and parasitic diseases. Proper vaccination is a must for keeping your birds diseases free, healthy and productive. So, vaccinate the birds timely. If somehow, diseases occurs in the farm then meet a vet doctor as soon as possible and listen to his advice.

Poultry products are easy to market because there is already an established market for poultry eggs and meat with huge demand. So, you don’t have to think about marketing your products. You can sell your products in both local markets and big cities.

3. Cattle farming

Cattle farming is another lucrative livestock rearing option. However, it is a capital-intensive business venture.  But this type of business is very profitable. The selling price of a fully grown market size cattle is currently estimated at N200,000.

When rearing cattle, you don’t have to worry so much about diseases because cattle by nature are strong resistant livestock. They feed mainly grasses and have no trouble grazing. However, you should be aware of predators like snakes because they can poison and kill the cattle while grazing on an open field.

Cattles produce meat, milk and the blood and bone meal can be used as fertilizers and as feeds for livestock. The faeces (dung) can also be used as manure etc.

The different breeds of cattle include Azawal, Sokoto Gudali, Wadara, White Fulani, Ndama, Kekeku, Kuri, Brown Swiss, Holstein, Jersey etc.

They are ruminants that have hollow horns and hoofs with an even number of toes. They are mainly reared for their meat, milk, hide and skin, manure and as draught animals to work on the farm.

Cattle breeds can be categorized into three major groups, which are;

  • Beef cattle: They are mainly reared to produce meat
  • Dairy cattle: They are mainly reared to produce milk
  • Dual purpose Cattle: They are capable of producing meat and milk

Overall, the economic importance of Cattle farming in Nigeria includes:

  • Provision of meat and milk
  • Suitable to pull plough on farms
  • Provision of hide and skin
  • Provision of blood meal and bone meal for feeds for farm animals
  • Source of employment and income to people
  • The dung serves as a very good source of manure
  • Source of fertilizers can be gotten from blood, bones, and offal of cattle

Aside these top 3 options, other livestock rearing options include;

4. Fish farming

This is another excellent livestock farming option with an available market, low startup cost and high prospect of income. Catfish farming is the most common fish farming in Africa. You can start this business in a small-scale by setting up your own fish pond using a 1000 litres open plastic container. See how to start catfish farming business.

5. Pig farming

Pig farming is profitable. If you doubt this you can read the story of Anna Phosa, who became one of Africa’s largest pig farmers by starting her pig farm with just 4 piglets. Today, her pig farm has about 30 staff and supplies over 100 pigs weekly to buyers. The good thing about pigs is that they give birth to many piglets and pork is loved by many Africans.

6. Snail rearing

This is not a popular livestock farming because few people are into it. Snails are expensive and scarce in our local markets and hotels. However, people buy snails regardless of how expensive it is because of its high nutritional value. See how to start making money as a snail farming today

7. Dog breeding

Dog meat is cherished by several people, especially in Southern Nigeria. However, most people do not keep dogs for meat. Dogs are mainly kept as pets and for security reasons.

8. Honeybees farming

Honey is expensive in most African countries because few people are involved in honey bees farming. This is a business you can consider as there is very little competition in this business. However, you need to get trained before you can begin.

9. Rabbits & grasscutter farming

This is another business with little competition. Rabbits and grasscutter meat is cherished by many people. You can sell your grass cutters and rabbits to restaurants and hotels and directly to consumers. See a detailed guide on grass cutters farming.

10. Sheep Farming

Just like goat rearing, sheep farming is a lucrative livestock business as it provides a good income to the farmer by sales of the animals for meat or their wool which is used by textile industries.

4 thoughts on “Livestock Farming in Nigeria: How to Start in 2024”

I am interested in goat , cows and pigs farming for a start, I need to discuss this with a farm expert in this regard

I want to be train

To start goat farming which of the goat breed is the best to start with?, where is the best location in Nigeria to rear goat? Thanks.

I AM A PROSPECTIVE POTENTIAL FARMER, I WANT TO INVEST IN GOAT, SHEEP AND COW FARMING. ALTHOUGH I ‘M NOT SURE WHICH SHOULD START FIRST BUT I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE HAVE INFORMATION IN THIS REGARDS.

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Starting livestock farming business in nigeria: all you need to know.

Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria is a profitable business venture for you who have made up your mind about starting your own business. In recent years, livestock farming business in Nigeria is booming and the future of agriculture in the Nigerian economy is very bright. The prospect of livestock farming in Nigeria and how you can venture into the business and succeed is the focus of this article. When considering livestock farming business in Nigeria, the different types of livestock farming in Nigeria to invest in are:

  • Poultry farming
  • Cattle rearing

Fish farming

Pig farming.

  • Rabbit farming
  • Goat farming

Snail farming

  • Grass-cutter farming etc.

Animal husbandry in Nigeria is mostly controlled by small-time livestock farmers in the rural areas. Livestock production in Nigeria generates millions of dollars every year. Livestock farming business in Nigeria is one of the major sources of food for Nigerians. There is no doubt that so long as people live, there will always be need for food. Livestock farming in Nigeria is one of the most sustainable means of producing food for the ever growing Nigerian population.

Also Read: How to start sugarcane farming business in Nigeria

The simple reason is that people love to eat and use meat to prepare their meals and also use these livestock during festive periods. The demand for livestock in Nigeria will continually be on the high. This is the reason there will always be an ever present market for you to sell your livestock and make mouth watering profits.

Irrespective of this high rate of profitability in livestock farming business in Nigeria, starting and managing a livestock farming business can be quite challenging and demanding. This is why very few farmers venture into livestock farming business despite the high rate of profitability in the livestock business.

This is mostly as result of the fear of the risks (illness and death of animals) involved in livestock business, cost of feeding and maintaining the animals, etc. Ways to manage these risks and reduce the cost of doing the business are what we will be exposing to you in the course of this article. This article focuses on helping you with the best livestock farming practices to adopt in order to keep your livestock alive and at the same time, reducing the cost of production.

How To Run Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria

In order to succeed in livestock business, you must be very cautious and at the same time, paying attention to every detail concerning livestock farming business in Nigeria. You really need to consider some conditions before you venture into livestock business. The future and profitability of livestock farming depends on a couple of criteria and circumstances.  In order to be successful in your livestock production in Nigeria, below are four important tips you should have at the back of your mind.

Startup Capital

At the center of starting any business is the availability of capital to initiate such business. You will need some initial capital and a well detailed business plan to execute you business. Starting a livestock farming business in Nigeria will really be easy if you start small and then gradually expand the business. With your startup capital, you should consider starting on small-scale at the beginning and then grow it from there.

Business Plan

A well detailed and structured business plan is a necessity for the future development of your livestock farming business in Nigeria. With your business plan, you can be able to calculate if your business is profitable or is there need to a change in the way you run the livestock business. A well detailed business plan is like your road map to having a successful business venture. Without your business plan, you will be operating your business blind, and this can be very disastrous to the success of your livestock business.

Land is another important aspect to consider before starting your livestock farming business in Nigeria. Availability of land space to raise your livestock should be considered before you can go ahead with your livestock farming business.

Dedication And Discipline

As a livestock farmer, you must be very dedicated and disciplined in order to succeed in the livestock business. For your set targets, goals and desires concerning your business to be a reality, you must be very dedicated and disciplined to see them through.

There is no way you can set long-term goals and work to actualize them if dedication and discipline is lacking in your life.  It is not all about having the capital, available land and a detailed business plan; you must be disciplined and dedicated to a fault.

Also Related: How to start poultry farming in Nigeria

Different Areas In Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria 

I believe that you have known all that you need to succeed in animal husbandry in Nigeria. Let us now set our sight on the different types of livestock farming in Nigeria. It is always very important to know the demands of your consumers and customers in any business venture you are in. when you have a specific target market, it will be much easier to relate with your customers.

We will bring to you the prospect of different areas in livestock farming business in Nigeria. You should be able to identify a particular area in livestock farming to focus on. You must understand every market and very customer have different demands. Therefore, all your decisions must be based on the market demand.

All areas in livestock business bring in good money, so whatever livestock farming area you decide to operate, it will definitely be profitable. Livestock farming business in Nigeria or animal husbandry in Nigeria is a very profitable business to venture into. Below is the list of the top most profitable livestock farming areas to invest your money in Nigeria.

Most Profitable Livestock Farming Niches To Invest In

Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria

This is a very profitable livestock farming business in Nigeria, and is yet to develop fully. Though it is not as common as fish farming and other prominent livestock farming in Nigeria, it has potential to really make your very rich.

Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria

This is a very profitable livestock business in Nigeria. It is estimated that in Nigeria, N 75 million is generated weekly from fish farming alone. You can imagine what the future holds for this farming business in Nigeria.

Poultry Farming

Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria

This is arguably the most popular livestock farming business in Nigeria. It is very profitable for obvious reasons. You can sell not only the meat but the eggs as well. In poultry farming business , you can raise birds like chickens, ducks, turkeys, quails etc.

Cattle farming

This is arguably the oldest livestock farming business in Nigeria. It is very popular in northern Nigeria. Aside from the meat from cattle farming, the milk is also becoming more acceptable by the populace in Nigeria. You cannot talk about animal husbandry in Nigeria without cattle farming.

The health benefit of snail is second to none. It is as a result of the health implication that the Nigerian government is planning on investing in and promoting snail farming industry. They are also trying to involve more snail people into the snail business in Nigeria.

Problems And Challenges Of Livestock Farming Business In Nigeria

As with all other businesses, livestock business also has its own problems and challenges. The truth is that you are bound to face some of these problems should you choose to invest in livestock farming business in Nigeria. Some of these problems and challenges include:

  • Livestock diseases
  • Low capital
  • Lack of organized animal product market
  • Bad transportation network in Nigeria

Even with these problems and challenges, livestock farming in Nigeria have more advantages than disadvantages. You are certain to make profits no matter the area of livestock farming in Nigeria that you venture into. Just make sure that you get all the needed and relevant information concerning your area of interest in livestock farming. There is no time to delay, pick one area and invest your money today.

In entrepreneur Nigeria, we offer professional business plan writing services that you can depend on any day any time. Our team of experts will get your business plan ready within 2 weeks of your order.

As you know that no business makes a good impact without a well detailed business plan, give us a call today for your business plan in that business of your choice. Contact us on +234 7037281050

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8 Tips to Start Livestock Farming Business

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  • March 13, 2024

Livestock Farming Business: In this article, you will learn How to start livestock farming business in Nigeria.

I will be showing you practically, how to start a livestock farm in Nigeria. You will also learn the basic methods on how to run a livestock farm effectively.

Also included in this guide is livestock farming business plan sample.

Before you can succeed in livestock business, you need a feasibility study on livestock farming in Nigeria.

You will get this as you read on. How really profitable is livestock farming?

Well, profitability of livestock farming in Nigeria lies in a number of factors.

You will learn this shortly. So, in essence, we shall be looking at livestock farming in Nigeria.

But not only this, you will also learn how to start and make profit in livestock farming in Nigeria.

  • Livestock Farming Business

Feasibility Study on Livestock Farming in Nigeria

Nigeria, with a populace of more than 170 million individuals is horribly way behind in foods rich in protein.

This, of course, is imperative for the advancement of human possibilities both rationally and physically.

Information from the FOS, CBN, and FAO shows that from livestock, under 2kg of meat is accessible to a normal Nigerian for each year.

It is simply insignificant if 4kg of eggs for every annum is accessible to every Nigerian.

Truth be told, milk production too has been nose jumping or, best case scenario has stayed consistent since 1994.

This situation poses a great opportunity for anyone interested in livestock farming in Nigeria.

But that is just a tip of the iceberg.

Livestock production provide employment opportunities to numerous Nigerians.

The livestock populace contains livestock, goats, sheep, pigs, poultry and so on.

The livestock framework utilized by the farmers is described by conventional arrangement of production.

Read also:  How to start Haulage/ Logistic Business in Nigeria

 Livestock Farming Business

Present Challenges in Livestock Farming in Nigeria

The significant difficulties confronting the livestock division are:

  • lack of capital,
  • storage offices,
  • lack of saved land for livestock farmers
  • Frequent burglary.

Is Livestock Farming in Nigeria a productive Business to Do?

The answer is Yes! Let me explain further:

1. Shortage in supply of Livestock in Nigeria:

A gross deficiency in the supply of livestock products (meat and Dairy) right now from both neighborhood production and importation is a stunning open door for the livestock business.

2. High interest and Market Demand for meat and dairy products:

The household production and recorded importation of livestock are, as one, insufficient to meet over 60% of the genuine request.

This is an open door for potential financial specialists to take advantage of the hole in the supply of products.

3. Increased Need for Livestock Ranches in Nigeria:

Livestock farmers in Nigeria are overwhelmingly travelers and provincial tenants frame the Northern area while the market for the products are in the southern piece of the nation.

By chance, there have been lethal conflicts between the farmers and their host groups in the southern district for touching area.

This conflict for brushing land has exhibited open door for financial specialists to setup ranches in the south to house these livestock for ahead appropriation to the tremendous market in the district.

There is a wide market for Livestock Farming in Nigeria.

What you need now are the Step by step guides to Start a Livestock Farming business in Nigeria.

Step by step instructions to Start a Livestock Farming Business in Nigeria

1. compose your livestock farming business plan.

Obviously before you get into any business, it is expected of you to do a broad research on it.

Same applies to Livestock Farming.

You need to also do a feasibility study on Livestock Farming Business.

When this is done, that is, with your feasibility study, you put up a Business Plan.

The truth is, that legitimate earlier planning forestalls poor execution.

You should be proactive in going about this Livestock Farming.

You should have the capacity to foresee and prevent conceivable difficulties.

A SWOT examination must be done likewise.

2. Enroll Your Business

Do not plan to start any business that isn’t appropriately enlisted with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria, CAC.

The CAC is the first port of call in your quest to establishing Livestock Farming business in Nigeria.

There are other bodies as well. But the CAC should be the first port of call.

3. Settle on the sort of Livestock Business Model you Wish to Trade on

While there might be various livestock businesses.

The vast majority either go for Dairy Operation Business Model or Meat Production Business Model.

This is extremely essential in seeing how to begin a livestock farm in Nigeria.

This is necessary since what you choose will decide the farm equipment you require.

Dairy Operation Business Model is raising livestock essentially to offer their dairy products – particularly milk.

The Meat Production Business Model is raising livestock essentially for meat utilization.

Whichever livestock farming business model you settle on assumes a key part in deciding the farm equipment you will go for.

Related:  18 Tips to Start Dairy Business in Nigeria

4. Rent or Buy a Farmland

You ought to take a close look at renting a farm space for 10 to at least 30 years.

I’m certain you realize that there are sure standards or rules for purchasing a farmland.

Or, maybe, I ought to state these are very important things you ought to consider.

For example , a great proportion of Nigeria’s livestock and dairy products are sourced from the Northern parts of the nation.

These include states like: Borno, Taraba, Jigawa, Kebbi, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Niger, Kaduna and Zamfara.

You could consider beginning where there is prepared market.

5. Buy livestock farming business Farm Equipment

Your Livestock Business Model will characterize the sort of farm equipment you will require.

The primary thing you do in the wake of renting or obtaining a farmland for your livestock is to fence it round.

Your livestock equipment will help you in raising the group.

Furthermore, assume a noteworthy part in helping you keep the rented property.

Fundamentally there are three classifications of farming equipment.

a. Livestock Shed

A livestock shed is a farm working in which livestock are kept when they are not brushing around for pasture.

It is additionally a fenced in area in which they can be milked.

A livestock shed is a need on the off chance that you are setting out on the Dairy way.

b. Feeding Equipment

These are the things required for livestock encouraging.

These livestock equipment can be bundle feeders, crawl feeders, bunk feeders or bull mineral feeders.

Contingent upon the encouraging framework you pick, you may not require any of these.

There are essentially two nourishing frameworks – Feedlots and Pastures.

Feedlot is a sort of Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) which is utilized for escalated creature farming. Basically, it is the place livestock are totally sustained.

Pastures is another AFO in which livestock will remain on pasture eating grass for their whole lives, “the way God prearranged”.

Sustaining equipment are an absolute necessity in feedlot settings and are exceptionally prescribed for ranchers raising grass-nourished livestock.

In addition, pasture livestock likewise require the troughs for accepting supplements.

The standard plant protein supplement required for your livestock is around 11%. To regulate that, troughs would be important.

c. Watering Equipment

It’s this straightforward. Expansive livestock require vast volumes of water.

You should have water tanks, and watering troughs on the off chance that you are working the feedlot framework.

6. Settle on the Breed of Livestock

There are more than 800 known breeds of livestocks.

Your livestock business model ought to be put into thought before settling on your decision of livestock.

It beyond any doubt doesn’t bode well to make due with meat livestock when your proposed model is for dairy production.

Read also:  Top 101 Capacity Plan Business in Nigeria

7. Choose Livestock Reproduction Method

Essentially, to mate or normal reproduction, you could begin with one male and ten female livestock.

Generally, in the event that you need to begin littler, say with 5 livestock.

You could lease a male that will mate your 5 female livestocks.

Even better, Artificial Insemination, the medicinal or veterinary strategy of infusing semen into the vagina or uterus, could be received.

This strategy, has after some time, demonstrated to have a higher achievement rate of richness. Whatever you do, counsel a specialist.

Read also:  Top 10 Chemicals for Veterinary Business in Nigeria

8. Deal with Your Livestock

Its insufficient to know how to begin a livestock business in Nigeria.

You have to know how to oversee and increase what you have.

With the goal for you to do in this business, we firmly encourage you to take in more about the accompanying:

  • Rudiments of breeding, calving and weaning
  • Raising or purchasing substitution yearlings (a youthful female livestock that has not borne a calf) and male livestock
  • Nutrition and supplemental bolstering. Not simply grass!
  • Animal wellbeing plan including an inoculation organisation plan and parasite management plan
  • Range and pasture management

See also:  9 Tips to succeed in Dairy farms Business in Nigeria

9. Advertise Your Livestock as well as its Products

Begin sourcing for companies that deliver or sale dairy products.

And do all that is required of you to be one of their general milk providers.

Obviously, that is whether you are in the dairy production line.

In the event that you are into meat production, pay special attention and care to meat selling companies.

Propose your selling price, even better, in the situation that you can.

Simply, begin your own dairy products or potentially meat selling company.

I like the idea of advertising livestock an onl i ne stage for purchasing and offering livestock in Nigeria.

Read also:  28 Livestock Disease Prevention Tips in Nigeria

This guide is just an end e avor at giving a bed shake to your feasibility examines before you set out on livestock farming.

Definitely, ‘know your business’! Take in more consistently.

Discover more on the most proficient method to begin a livestock farm in Nigeria.

Gain more fr o m the specialists.

Get up and visit diverse farms and ranches.

Perceive how the everyday operations are for both meat production and dairy item farms.

You beyond any doubt do know how to begin a livestock farm in Nigeria now, isn’t that right?

If you need a complete business plan, please let us know.

Or, you want us to help you set up this business, kindly contact us. Otherwise, Please check out these other business ideas you can do in  Nigeria

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How to Start Agriculture Business In Nigeria 2024 (Beginner Guide)

  • Post author: Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka ACMC
  • Post published: May 30, 2024
  • Post category: Scholarly Articles

How to start agriculture business in Nigeria: Agriculture is one of Nigeria’s, if not all of Africa’s, oldest occupations. We all know that agricultural business in Nigeria consists of a variety of techniques, including livestock/animal husbandry, farming (which includes planting and harvesting), and mineral extraction (which involves trapping natural resources in the soil). Only a lazy guy, it was formerly thought, would refuse to work the ground in order to make the most of Nigeria’s fertile soil.

This concept may be somewhat correct because they practiced subsistence agriculture, in which a farmer simply grows food for his family and friends. Agriculture, particularly farming, has taken on a new face in today’s globe; farmers now invest in big quantities and use modern equipment and facilities, as opposed to the primitive implements of the past.

There are various reasons why agriculture production should be considered as a career option. The most fundamental reason to consider farming as a business is that humans will always require food and clothing. Agriculture is the industry that produces both food and the clothing materials.

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More so, as Nigeria’s population continues to grow, there will be a greater demand for food to meet the country’s demands. In Nigeria, there is a surge of interest in the agriculture industry. Many entrepreneurs are developing an interest in various aspects of agriculture, with the goal of turning it into financially viable ventures using various forms of information technology. As a result, the agricultural sector is rapidly reclaiming its long-lost prominence.

Furthermore, the Federal Government of Nigeria has supported agriculture through a variety of programs throughout the years; from local farmers to foreign investors, the Nigerian government today actively supports efforts to restore the country to its former glory (agricultural dependence).

To do this, the Nigerian government has softened several of its laws, making it simpler for local and international farmers to do business in the country. Tax rebates on agricultural produce and investment allowances for agricultural business enterprises developed in rural areas without crucial infrastructural amenities are also part of this mitigated strategy.

Agriculture is one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing industries. Anyone with a basic understanding of farming, manufacturing, and operations may establish a profitable agriculture firm with good strategic planning. You’ll discover a helpful guide here if you want to build a profitable agriculture producing business.

Recommended: Problems and Challenges of agriculture in Africa

Table of Contents

What Is Agriculture?

Agriculture is the science and art of cultivating individual plants and rearing domesticated (livestock) animals for the purpose of generating food, feed, fiber, and a variety of other desirable items, as well as the processing of these products for human use. Foods, fibers, fuels, and raw materials are all examples of large-scale agricultural products (such as rubber).

Farming business in Nigeria

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Business Opportunities For Agriculture in Nigeria

a. POULTRY FARMING: Poultry farming is the practice of keeping domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese for the purpose of food grazing. Every day, a variety of dairy products are consumed, including eggs, chicks, and cheese, among others.

b. PIG FARMING: Pig farming refers to the practice of raising pigs. It is one of Nigeria’s most profitable and successful animal industries. Pigs are prolific breeders, capable of producing 10 to 14 piglets in a single birth, which makes commercial pig farming profitable.

Pig meat (pork) is in high demand since it is both nutritious and delicious. In terms of consumption, the pork market in West Africa is valued around $3 billion, with imports accounting for 80% of the total.

How do I start my own agricultural business?

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c. MAIZE FARMING: In Nigeria, maize farming is a major source of food. Maize, often known as corn, is thought to be one of Africa’s most popular starchy foods. Maize can be boiled, roasted, or further processed into pap, cornflour, popcorn, corn flasks, and a variety of other goods. Maize is in high demand all year due to its many uses.

d. RICE CULTIVATION: Nigeria is still West Africa’s major rice grower and Africa’s third largest producer after Egypt and Madagascar. Rice production in Nigeria is estimated to be at 3.6 million metric tons per year. Surprisingly, despite its massive production, Nigeria is still unable to meet its domestic demand, which is estimated to be over 5.5 million tons.

How much does it cost to start a farming business in Nigeria?

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e. FISH FARMING: The process of rearing fish is called fish farming. It is a prominent sector in Nigeria, and it is growing in popularity as the demand for high-quality animal protein rises. Fish farming has the advantage of not being seasonal, as opposed to other types of farming. It’s possible to accomplish it in both wet and dry weather.

f. CASSAVA FARMING AND PROCESSING: Cassava farming is getting more profitable by the day, thanks to Nigeria’s growing variety of cassava products. This farm crop has traditionally been a source of livelihood and food for millions of Nigerians. 90% of Nigerian families consume cassava products on a daily basis. Garri, wheat-flour, animal feed, commercial caramel, and many more cassava dishes are popular.

How to start agriculture business in Nigeria

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G. Goat rearing: Goats are four-footed domestic animals, their feet are made up of hard hooves. They are ruminants and the males are mostly born with a beard and horns. An individual can start this as an agricultural business and make a lot of profits but first you must acquire a good number of healthy male and female goats, the two genders will hasten the birth of new goats. A land for them to feed and stay on. A building in form of a shed or barn or whatever covered building the animals can live on. Then, the individual can make adequate arrangements to make sure they are fed, have clean water, are protected and are accounted for, so that none of the goats gets lost or become harmed on its own or during childbirth.

Complete Guide to Agricultural Business in Nigeria

The place they stay needs to be cleaned from dirt, dirty water should be changed and food brought regularly. They should be allowed some free time to move around but under the careful guidance of the owner or an employee. Goats are very expensive, so a lot of money can be made when they are sold and you take of the next new breed and the business cycle continues. Their meat is very delectable that is usually known when you want to eat or sell it or use it’s animal products for other profitable activities.

H. Plantain plantation: A plantain is a perennial crop and are related to bananas. The inner white parts are succulent in nature and that part maybe covered by a greenish outer layer. Plantains may come in various forms because they are made up of different species. Although it’s lifespan may not be much, some times as it bears fruits and gets old, a new breed also grows along side the old plantain. Iit grows within a year and is not limited by any seasons.Having a plantain plantation is a large business and has a lot of prospects.

How to Start a Farming Business in Nigeria

Selling those bunches of plantain or exporting them is a lot of money coupled with using the leaves for cooking food and other related purposes. Plantain has a lot of products.  It can be converted into like flour, it can be fried to an extent that it is so dry; it turns into chips, it can be boiled, roasted or combined with other food stuffs. When you want to plant it, you get the young plantain suckers and put inside the fertile loamy soil preferably during the rainy season, you plant it where it will get adequate sunlight then add water and manure for proper growth.

Recommended: Challenges of Agriculture in Nigeria and solutions

How To Start Agriculture Business in Nigeria

1. MAKE RESEARCHES AND DETERMINE THE AGRICULTURE ASPECTS IN WHICH TO INVEST: Defining the scope of an agricultural business is a key aspect of getting it off the ground. Agriculture is a large industry with many different sub-sectors.

Would you like to start a vegetable farm? Farms with livestock? Do you intend to plant cashew, cassava, or cocoa (perennial crops) on a large scale? Or how about a mixed farm? I.e. a livestock and agriculture operation with a variety of livestock and crops.

All of these are important topics to consider when starting an agricultural business. This, in my opinion, should be the first step for any potential agribusiness investor. Outlining your objectives allows for effective planning.

2. OBTAIN THE TECHNICAL KNOW-HOW REQUIRED IN THAT INDUSTRY: It is better to obtain all of the technical abilities needed to embark into the agricultural production industry after picking the sector you wish to venture into.

This is an important phase because your ability to succeed in any subject is heavily influenced by your understanding of that field.

Which agricultural business is most profitable in Nigeria?

Also see: Highest Paying Businesses in Nigeria

3. FORM AN ENTREPRENEURIAL PLAN (BUSINESS PLAN): Is a business strategy required for agriculture? Yes. In agribusiness, a business plan is perhaps more critical than it is in most other industries. This isn’t to argue that a business plan isn’t necessary in other industries. Agriculture is more than just planting and harvesting; it provides income not only to individuals but also to nations, and it should be treated as such.

A business plan helps investors understand the concept behind your business, how your products will be sold, who your target market is, and how the company plans to sustain the market. Most importantly, it portrays professionalism and the viability of your business venture.

4. OBTAINING FUNDS: The next stage is to secure the capital required to operate the company. You could get money by taking out bank loans, looking for investors, borrowing from friends and relatives, or asking for government grants.

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5. OBTAIN A PRODUCTION SITE OR FARMLAND:  After obtaining your cash, the following stage is to acquire a production site or farmland, which may be obtained either outright or by renting the property for a set amount of time. Make sure your acreage or production site is appropriate for your agricultural operation.

Getting a piece of land, on the other hand, isn’t sufficient for starting an agriculture business. There are a few more things to consider.

a. Selecting a location with the best climate for the crops you want to grow.

b. Determining  the topography of the land.

c. Identify the soil type that best suits your chosen agricultural produce, such as cashews and cocoa, which grow well in sandy loams, and yams and cassava, which grow well in sandy clay.

When choosing farmland, all of these factors, as well as others, must be taken into account.

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6. APPLY FOR A COMMERCIAL NAME, LICENSE, OR PERMIT: Obtaining a business name, license, or license is a legal requirement for establishing an agricultural business in Nigeria. A business name, usually referred to as a trading name, is a name or title that a person or other legal entity uses to conduct business. Your firm becomes a legal entity after you register a business name.

Before doing business in Nigeria, a company with foreign ownership must get a business license from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. It is critical to understand that starting a business in Nigeria needs the acquisition of a license or permit that allows the company to be formally and legally recognized.

7. OBTAIN REQUIRED TOOLS AND LABOR FOR PRODUCTION:  This is the final step in the process of beginning agricultural production. It’s time to put a property into production after you’ve bought it. This step entails obtaining all essential tools, machines, and goods, as well as the necessary labor to begin production.

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Agricultural production will never be obsolete because there will always be a demand for food, which means that agricultural products will always be in demand. The agriculture production business in Nigeria can be a lucrative and successful enterprise to start because of the vast market requirement and your ability to develop a broad supply chain network.

If you’re looking to build a supply chain business in Nigeria, agricultural industry is a great option to consider.

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka, ACMC, is a lawyer and a certified mediator/conciliator in Nigeria. He is also a developer with knowledge in various programming languages. Samuel is determined to leverage his skills in technology, SEO, and legal practice to revolutionize the legal profession worldwide by creating web and mobile applications that simplify legal research. Sam is also passionate about educating and providing valuable information to people.

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How to Start a Profitable Farming Business in Nigeria (Complete Guide)

How to Start a Farming Business in Nigeria (The Ultimate Guide)

Farming business, also known as agriculture or farming, refers to the practice of cultivating plants, raising animals, or producing various agricultural products for commercial purposes. This business involves the management of land, water resources, and other natural elements to grow crops or raise livestock efficiently and sustainably.

Farming businesses can range in scale and diversity, encompassing various types such as:

  • Crop Farming: This involves cultivating crops like grains (wheat, rice, corn), fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and fiber crops (cotton).
  • Livestock Farming: This type focuses on raising animals for their products, such as meat (cattle, poultry, pigs), dairy (cows, goats, sheep), and other animal by-products.
  • Aquaculture: It involves the cultivation of aquatic organisms, like fish and shellfish, in controlled environments like ponds or tanks.
  • Horticulture: This covers the production of ornamental plants, flowers, and landscaping materials.
  • Specialty Farming: This includes niche farming practices like organic farming, hydroponics, or greenhouse cultivation.

Regardless of the type of farming business you choose to embark on, the information provided in this article can assist you in transforming it into a profitable agricultural business.

Table of Contents

1. determine your farming business niche.

The agriculture sector encompasses a wide range of farming businesses. Therefore, it’s advisable to enhance your efficiency by concentrating on a single type of farming enterprise rather than attempting to manage multiple ones, which might result in reduced effectiveness.

When selecting your farming niche, there are numerous options to consider, including:

  • Organic Vegetable Farming
  • Poultry Farming
  • Dairy Farming
  • Beekeeping (Apiculture)
  • Aquaculture (Fish Farming)
  • Cultivation of Herbs and Medicinal Plants
  • Goat Farming
  • Sheep Farming
  • Pig Farming
  • Snail Farming (Heliciculture)
  • Rabbit Farming, and many more.

Of course, if you possess sufficient capital, it’s feasible to engage in multiple agricultural businesses simultaneously. However, in case of limited capital, it’s advisable to focus on a single farming venture for optimal outcomes.

2. Research Your Chosen Farming Venture

Now that you’ve chosen your farming business niche to venture into, the next thing you want to do is to conduct market research to know its potential success. When conducting market research on your chosen type of agricultural business, there are areas that must be factored into the research such as;

  • Market Demand
  • Profitability
  • Your Interest and Expertise

After conducting thorough research and considering these factors, you’ll be in a position to make an informed decision that best fits your goals, resources, and the market conditions you’ve identified.

If on the other hand, your research indicates that your chosen agricultural business is not viable within the Nigerian market to yield a substantial return, you are free to opt for a different type of farming business.

Making an informed decision through research will set the foundation for your success in the farming industry.

3. Develop a Business Plan

It is the successful conclusion of your market research that will lead to the creation of an excellent business plan for your farming business.

If your goal and objective are to venture into the farming business on a large scale, a comprehensive and professional business plan becomes essential. But if the goal is to run your farming business on a small or medium scale due to financial constraints, a simple business plan will suffice.

While creating a business plan, it’s crucial to incorporate the following key components into your documentation:

  • Farming Goals
  • Target Market
  • Estimated Costs (Startup and Operational cost)
  • Revenue Projections
  • Marketing Strategies
  • Operational Plans
  • Financial Analysis
  • Risk Assessment

A solid business plan serves as a reference document to keep you on track, make informed decisions, and adjust your strategies as needed. It’s also a valuable tool for communicating your vision to potential partners, stakeholders, and financial supporters.

4. Acquire Land and Necessary Permits

Certainly, acquiring land is a fundamental requirement for your agricultural enterprise, irrespective of its scale or the specific type of farming you intend to pursue. Regardless of your location, land serves as an indispensable foundation for starting any farming endeavor. The selection of land should align with the particular demands of your chosen farming venture. Key criteria that the land must meet in the context of farming business include:

  • Soil Fertility: The soil composition should be suitable for cultivating the crops you intend to grow or for raising the animals you plan to rear. Conducting soil tests can provide insights into its fertility.
  • Accessibility: The chosen land should possess easy accessibility, facilitating the movement of equipment, inputs, and harvested produce.
  • Climate Suitability: The climate prevalent in the region should be conducive to nurturing your chosen crops or ensuring the well-being of your livestock. Different crops thrive under specific climatic conditions.

By considering these basic factors, you can secure optimal land for your farming business in Nigeria.

Subsequently, the next step after acquiring land is to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. Farming often necessitates these authorizations from governmental bodies to ensure adherence to regulations and standards.

Depending on your location and the type of farming you’re engaging in, you might require permits related to land use, environmental impact, water utilization, and more.

To determine the specific permits and licenses needed for your chosen farming business, you can refer to these government authorities in Nigeria:

  • The Federal Ministry for Agriculture and Rural Development
  • National Agricultural Land Development Authority
  • Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC)
  • Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS)

For more clarity on the permits and licenses that must be obtained, reach out to local government offices, agricultural extension services, or relevant agencies to understand the specific permits and licenses you need for your chosen farming venture. Regulations can vary based on location and the type of farming.

Additionally, don’t overlook the process of business registration , you can do that with the corporate affairs commission (CAC). Though business registration is totally dependent on the scale of your farming operation.

5. Set Up Infrastructure and Equipment

Farming requires certain physical structures and systems to ensure smooth operations and efficient management. These structures collectively form the infrastructure of your farm. Some key infrastructures include:

  • Irrigation Systems
  • Storage Facilities

While for equipment and machinery; The specific equipment you need depends on your chosen farming venture. Some common equipment and machinery in the farming business are;

  • Tillage Equipment (such as Plows, harrows, and cultivators)
  • Planting and Seeding Equipment
  • Harvesting Equipment
  • Livestock Equipment
  • Irrigation Equipment
  • Processing Equipment

In addition also consider technological advances such as GPS-guided tractors, remote monitoring systems, and data analysis tools to improve efficiency and productivity.

Proper infrastructure and well-maintained equipment can streamline your operations, increase productivity, and contribute to the overall success of your farming business.

6. Source Quality Inputs (Seeds, Seedlings, or Livestock)

Sourcing quality inputs is a critical step to ensure the health and productivity of your farm.

If you’re engaged in crop farming, the quality of your seeds or seedlings plays a critical role in determining the success of your harvest. Choose seeds that are disease-resistant, well-suited to your climate, and have a track record of good yields.

While For livestock farming, selecting healthy and genetically sound animals is crucial. Opt for livestock that have good growth potential, are free from diseases, and have desirable traits for your specific purpose (meat, milk, eggs, etc.).

By choosing the right seeds, livestock, and agricultural inputs, you set the foundation for a successful farming operation. Remember, investing in quality inputs often leads to better yields, reduced risks, and ultimately, higher profitability.

7. Hire and Train Workers (if applicable)

Your scale of operation will determine if you need to hire workers or not. Some farming activities can be managed by a single person, while others, especially larger operations, may require a team of workers.

When it comes to hiring and training workers the first rule of engagement is to create a good recruiting system that will help you select only the best. This recruiting system should focus on;

  • Identifying Roles needed to be filled in the organization
  • Advertise the job openings through local networks, job boards, or agricultural organizations.
  • The interview and selection process must be based on the skills, experience, and suitability of the candidates for the roles you’re hiring for.

When you successfully get the best among the applicants that applied for the job, the next swift thing to do is to make them undergo rigorous training in areas such as;

  • Skills training
  • Health and safety training
  • Standard operating procedures training, and
  • On-the-Job training.

With those areas of focus put in place, your only contribution will be to supervise their work and evaluate their performance.

8. Monitor and Manage Finances

In monitoring and managing of your business finance, you must carefully record all sources of income from your farming business, such as sales of crops, livestock, and any other products you produce.

And at the same time keep track of all expenses related to your farming activities, including input costs (seeds, fertilizers, feeds), labor, equipment maintenance, utilities, and any other operational costs.

And in addition maintaining accurate record-keeping such as; invoices, receipts, and payments is essential for financial transparency and accountability.

Monitoring and managing your finances effectively ensures that your farming business remains financially viable and sustainable thereby leading to an optimized operations, maximized profitability, and a secured long-term success of your farm.

9. Market and Sell Your Produce

Now you got your produce ready the next thing is; How do you sell them?

You can effectively sell your farm produce by creating a solid marketing strategy and establishing effective distribution channels.

Below are marketing strategies you should consider implementing when it comes to selling your farm produce and creating awares of your farming business to the public;

  • Online Presence
  • Offline Presence
  • Identify your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
  • Establish relationships with Wholesalers, Retailers, and Restaurants.
  • Pricing and Promotion Strategy
  • Meeting Customer Satisfaction

Also focusing on branding, quality, and understanding your target market, can effectively promote your produce and develop a loyal customer base.

How much will it cost to start a farm in Nigeria?

How much will it cost to start a farm in Nigeria?

The cost of starting a farming business in Nigeria can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of farming you plan to undertake, the scale of your operation, the location of the farm, and the level of technology and infrastructure you wish to employ.

However, below is a rough estimate of the costs involved in starting some common types of farming businesses in Nigeria;

Type of FarmingScaleEstimated Cost Range
Crop FarmingSmall-scaleN85,000 – N430,000
Medium-scaleN500,000 – N1,800,000
Large-scaleN4,300,000 and above
Livestock FarmingPoultry (small-scale)N85,000 – N400,000
Cattle (medium-scale)N900,000 – N4,000,000
Aquaculture (Fish Farming)Small to medium-scaleN500,000 – N1,800,000
Medium to large-scaleN5,000,000 and above

With the above-estimated cost, you have an idea of how much it will cost you to start your chosen farming business in Nigeria.

But it is important to conduct a detailed feasibility study and business plan to determine the precise cost of starting your chosen type of farm business in Nigeria based on your specific goals and resources.

Additionally, seeking advice from agricultural experts, local authorities, and experienced farmers can be beneficial in understanding the financial analysis (that is the cost and profit) of your farming business.

Which farming is most profitable in Nigeria?

Which farming is most profitable in Nigeria?

All the types of farming business are profitable in Nigeria but there are a few that stands out to be more profitable than other types of farming business, and they are;

  • Poultry Farming: Poultry farming , especially broiler chicken production (meat), is considered one of the most profitable ventures in Nigeria. The demand for poultry products, such as chicken and eggs, remains high due to their popularity in the Nigerian diet and the country’s growing population.
  • Fish Farming (Aquaculture): Fish farming is also highly profitable in Nigeria. The country has a large market for fish consumption, and with the decline in fish catch from natural water bodies, there is an increasing demand for fish produced through aquaculture.
  • Snail Farming: Snail farming is a relatively less common but profitable venture. Snail meat is considered a delicacy in Nigeria and has a growing demand both locally and internationally.
  • Goat Farming: The goat farming business is a profitable agricultural business to venture into. Apart from the fact that it requires minimal capital to start, its meat is widely consumed by all tribes in Nigeria, unlike pig meat which is not widely accepted in the northern part of Nigeria.
  • Vegetable Farming: Growing and selling high-demand vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens, can be profitable, especially when done in a well-managed and efficient manner.
  • Cassava Farming: Cassava is a staple crop in Nigeria, and it has various uses, including food consumption and industrial applications, making it a profitable venture for farmers.
  • Maize (Corn) Farming: Maize is widely used in Nigeria as food for humans and animals, making maize farming a potentially profitable enterprise.

And those are the type of farming businesses that are most profitable to venture in Nigeria.

It’s important to note that the profitability of any farming venture depends on several factors, such as market demand, input costs, access to finance, the efficiency of operations, and proper management practices.

Challenges for Starting a Farming Business in Nigeria

Here are some challenges and potential solutions for starting a farming business in Nigeria:

  • Land Acquisition: Securing suitable and affordable land can be a major hurdle. Solution: Explore government agricultural initiatives, lease arrangements, or collaborate with local communities for access to land. Engaging with local authorities can also help in understanding land tenure systems.
  • Access to Capital: Limited access to finance for purchasing equipment, seeds, and other inputs. Solution: Research and apply for agricultural loans, grants, or subsidies provided by government agencies , NGOs, or financial institutions. Consider forming partnerships with investors or agricultural cooperatives.
  • Infrastructure: Inadequate rural infrastructure, including roads and storage facilities. Solution: Advocate for infrastructure development, and explore partnerships with private sector companies. Implement on-farm storage solutions and efficient transportation strategies to mitigate the impact of poor infrastructure.
  • Climate Variability: Unpredictable weather patterns, including droughts and floods. Solution: Invest in climate-smart agriculture practices, use drought-resistant crops, and employ modern irrigation techniques. Explore weather insurance to protect against losses due to extreme weather events.
  • Market Access: Limited access to markets and price volatility. Solution: Establish partnerships with local markets, restaurants, and grocery stores. Explore online marketplaces and engage in contract farming to secure stable markets. Diversify products to cater to various market demands.
  • Technology Adoption: Limited use of modern agricultural technologies. Solution: Invest in and adopt modern farming technologies, such as precision farming, drone technology, and mobile apps for farm management. Attend training programs and workshops to build technical skills.
  • Pest and Disease Management: Crop and livestock diseases can significantly impact yields. Solution: Implement integrated pest management practices, use resistant crop varieties, and practice good animal husbandry. Regularly monitor and seek advice from agricultural extension services.
  • Labor Shortages: Difficulty in finding and retaining skilled labor. Solution: Invest in training programs for local communities, provide fair wages, and create a positive working environment. Consider mechanization to reduce dependency on manual labor.
  • Government Policies and Regulations: Navigating complex and sometimes inconsistent regulatory frameworks. Solution: Stay informed about government policies, engage with agricultural associations, and participate in advocacy efforts to influence favorable policies. Seek legal advice to ensure compliance.
  • Education and Awareness: Limited awareness and education on modern farming practices. Solution: Conduct outreach programs, workshops, and training sessions for local communities. Collaborate with agricultural extension services and NGOs to disseminate information on best practices.
  • 10 Money-Making Agriculture Business Ideas
  • How to Start Palm Oil Business in Nigeria
  • Rice Business in Nigeria Made Easy: A Success Guide
  • Which Agricultural Business is most Profitable?
  • A Detailed Roadmap to Catfish Farming Business in Nigeria
  • How to Run a Profitable Snail Farming Business in Nigeria
  • How to Start a Successful Goat Farming Business in Nigeria

Final Thoughts on Starting a Farming Business in Nigeria

Farming businesses require careful planning, knowledge of agricultural practices, and an understanding of market demands to be successful. Factors such as weather conditions, soil quality, pest control, and government regulations play significant roles in the farming industry.

Additionally, advancements in technology and sustainable practices have become essential for modern farming businesses to increase productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ensure long-term profitability.

Remember to subscribe (Email or/and turn on the Bell 🔔 Notification icon) to get updated on your device when new articles are published.

Where is the cheapest place to start a farm?

The cheapest place to start a farm in Nigeria are in the rural areas where lands are affordable, availability of skilled labor, lower initial costs, and security.

What can I farm in Nigeria?

With the diverse climate and geography that make it suitable for a wide range of agricultural activities in Nigeria you can farm crops such as; cassava, maize (Corn), rice, yam, vegetables, oil palm and many more. On the other hand you can start a farm business with livestock such as; poultry, cattle, goats and sheep, fish, pig, and so on.

How can I make money fast farming?

You can make money fast in farming by engaging in fast growing crops likes; Spinach, Maize, Waterleaf, Pumpkin leaves (Ugwu), Green beans, Okra (Lady’s finger), Cucumbers, Watermelon (some varieties have shorter maturity periods), and so on. Or in high demand livestock farming such as, fish farming, goat farming, cow farming, and snail farming.

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I am Eghosa Kester Igbinigie, the owner of StartBizEasy.com and Richnuggets.com. As a business enthusiast, writer, and speaker, I hold a degree in Business Administration (BSc) and own several successful businesses

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How To Start Agricultural Business in Nigeria or Africa: Complete Guide

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

How To Start A Lucrative Agricultural Production Business in Nigeria or Africa: Complete Guide | Image: Metrics

Agricultural production is one of the most crucial tools for ending extreme poverty, boosting shared prosperity and feeding a projected population of 9.7 billion by 2050. Agricultural growth is two to four times more effective when it comes to raising income among the poorest, compared to other sectors. Analysis conducted in 2016 found that 65% of poor working adults make a living from agriculture. Agriculture is also vital to economic growth. It constituted one-third of global gross domestic product (GDP) in 2014.

Agriculture is an essential sector of the Nigerian economy in terms of employment, with about 70% of the workforce involved. The agricultural industry contributes just over 20% of the country’s total GDP, although it could be more. Agricultural holdings are typically small and dispersed. Globally, agriculture is mostly subsistent and characterized by simple tools and shifting cultivation. Such small-scale farms produce about 80% of the total global food.

Approximately 30.7 million hectares (76 million acres), or 33% of the land area of Nigeria is used for cultivation. The varied climates in Nigeria, from the tropical coastal regions to the arid Northern zone, make it possible to produce nearly all the agricultural products that can be provided in the world’s tropical and semitropical regions. Nevertheless, large-scale agriculture is uncommon. Despite abundant water sources, favourable climate, and large areas of arable land, production is limited in many areas due to low soil fertility and inefficient cultivation methods. In 2001, agriculture made a contribution of about 32% to the GDP of Nigeria.

Nigeria’s agricultural products can be split into two main groups: food crops produced for domestic consumption, and export products. The country was self-sufficient in food before the 1967 civil war, but food imports increased significantly after 1973.

Despite available oil resources, agriculture remains the base of the Nigerian economy, providing the primary source of livelihood for most people in Nigeria.

There are several reasons one should consider agricultural production as an endeavour. The most basic reason why you should consider choosing farming as a business is that people need food and clothes, and will always do. Farming is precisely the industry that provides food and materials. Apart from meeting needs, a farming business will always be in demand.

More so, given that that the population of Nigeria is continuously on the rise, there’ll be more need for food to meet the needs of the nation’s population. There’s a wave of interest in the agricultural sector in Nigeria. A lot of entrepreneurs are beginning to develop an interest in various areas of agriculture, thereby and transforming it into viably successful endeavours using multiple forms of information technology. As a result, the agriculture sector is fast regaining its agelong respectable reputation.

The agricultural sector is one of the most blossoming industries of the Nigerian economy. With proper strategic planning, any individual having a basic knowledge of farming and manufacturing production and operations can start a profitable agriculture business. If you’re looking to start a lucrative agricultural production business, you will find a helpful guide to help you here.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Moringa Cake Production Business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide

What Is Agriculture?

Agriculture is the science of producing food, feed, fibre and many other desired products by growing individual plants and raising domesticated (livestock) animals. Large-scale agricultural goods may be classified into foods, fibres, fuels and raw materials (such as rubber). Classes of food include cereals (grains), vegetables, fruits, oils, meat, milk, mushrooms and eggs.

What Is Agricultural Production?

Agricultural production refers to the process of growing, cultivating and harvesting plants and rearing livestock to derive food and other finished products for both human and animal consumption. Agricultural products originate from plants or animals grown to support or improve human life. Food is the most commonly produced agrarian commodity, and the global food supply per person as measured in calories has increased over the past 50 years by more than 20%. Yet for many reasons, we use a vast array of agricultural goods every day, from the garments we wear to the paper we write on. We decorate with flowers mainly provided by agriculture and power our cars partly on farm-made ethanol. We also produce plastics using agricultural materials. New uses for farm products will continue to expand as technology advances at breakneck speed.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Tea Farming Business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide

Business Opportunities in Agriculture In Nigeria & Around The World

There are countless opportunities in agricultural production. Some of them are:

1). Cassava Farming:

With Nigeria’s increasingly diverse use of cassava products, cassava farming is becoming more lucrative every passing day. For millions of Nigerians, this farm product has always been a source of livelihood and food. Every day, 90% of Nigerian households eat cassava products. Some of the popular cassava meals are garri, wheat-flour, animal feed, commercial caramel and much more.

2). Poultry Farming:

Poultry farming is the method of raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys and geese for food-grazing purposes. Diverse dairy products are consumed every day, including eggs, chickens, and cheese, among many others.

3). Rice Farming:

Nigeria remains the largest producer of rice in all of West Africa and the third largest producers in Africa after Egypt and Madagascar. Nigeria produces approximately 3.6 million metric tons of rice annually. Interestingly, despite this large production Nigeria still falls short of meeting its local demand placed at about 5.5 million tons.

4). Maize Farming:

The Maize farming business is a food staple in Nigeria. Maize, also known as corn, is said to be one of the most consumed sources of starchy food in Africa. Maize can either be boiled or roasted or further processed into the production of pap, cornflour, popcorn, corn flasks and many more products. For its multiple uses, maize never runs out of demand all year.

5). Pig Farming:

Pig farming in Nigeria is one of the lucrative and profitable livestock businesses. Commercial pig farming is beneficial because pigs are prolific breeders and can deliver 10 to 14 piglets in a single birth. Pig meat (pork) has a high demand since red meat is a good source of protein, and is very tasty as well. The pork market in West Africa alone accounts for about $3 billion consumption value, 80% of which is sourced by importation. That is a lot of untapped revenue for agropreneurs both in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

And so much more…

Facts and Benefits of Agriculture

The following are benefits of Agricultural production:

  • It serves as a major source of livelihood
  • Reduces poverty
  • Creation of business opportunities among people of all age ranges.
  • Employment opportunities for youths and graduates
  • Sources of raw materials for producing other items
  • Development of the national economy
  • The UK, India, Russia, China, France and Argentina remain the biggest Agriculture-producing countries of the world.
  • Benue, Imo, Anambra, Cross River, Taraba and Ondo states lead agricultural production in Nigeria.
  • Creation of wealth for farmers.
  • Generation of funds via international trading and exportation of products.
  • Income generation for the world
  • 40% of the global population are farmers
  • 30% of farm operators worldwide are women.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Saffron Farming Business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide

Types of Agricultural Products

Agricultural products fall into four broad groups which are: foods, fuels, fibres, and raw materials:

According to the U.S., grains and cereal crops are grown on over half the farmed acreage of the world. However, food crops include more than just cereals such as wheat and corn. Food and dairy products such as milk and honey and farmed fish are also organic food products.

Ethanol, made from corn, sugar cane or sorghum, is the most commonly used agricultural fuel product. In addition, agricultural by-products such as straw sugarcane are also burned to produce power.

3). Fibres:

Fibre crops include cotton, wool, and silk. Farmers use hemp to make linen, rope and flax. You can also use bamboo fibre to make cloth.

4). Production of Raw Materials:

These are agricultural products used for processing other agricultural products. Almost all farm products can be used to generate other products which may or may not be edible.

How To Start An Agricultural Business in Nigeria: Step By Step Guide

1). identify the sector of agriculture to venture into:.

There are different sectors of agricultural production in Nigeria, so its best to choose the sector that best suits you, your level of financing and the level of your return. This is because some sectors are capital-intensive while some are less capital-intensive. In the same vein, some agricultural businesses have short-term returns while others yield returns over a long term.

2). Get The Technical Know-How Involved In That Sector:

After identifying the sector of agricultural production you want to venture into, it is best to acquire all the technical skills needed to venture into the sector. This is a crucial step, as your success in any field of endeavours would be significantly influenced by your knowledge of that field.

3). Draw Up A Business Plan:

After acquiring the skills needed for this endeavour, it is now time to draw up a budget and count the cost required to venture into the sector of your chose. It is also essential to draw up a workable and very detailed business plan to help you prepare adequately to start up your business.

4). Source For Funds:

The next step is to source for the capital needed to run the business. You could generate funds by taking loans from banks, seeking investors or borrowing from friends and family, or applying for grants from the government.

5). Acquire A Production Site Of Farm Land:

The next step after acquiring your funds is to secure a production site or farmland, which can be gotten through outright purchase or by renting the property for a specified period. Ensure that your farmland or production site suits your agricultural business.

6). Acquire Necessary Tools and Labour For Production:

This is the last stage of starting agricultural production. After acquiring a property, it is time to set it up for production. This stage involves getting all necessary tools, machines and goods as well as the labour needed to commence production.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Maize Production Business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide

Challenges Of Agriculture In Nigeria

  • Bad government policies
  • Unavailability of funds
  • High cost of production
  • Bad road network
  • Lack of adequate skilled labour
  • Lack of machinery for mechanised production
  • Poor power supply in the country
  • Little or no attention is given to research into advancing production
  • Some farm produce are seasonal
  • Lack of storage facilities
  • Unfavourable international market policies
  • Mistrust between farmers and marketers of farm produce
  • Lack of chemicals to control pests and diseases
  • Lack of government aid and support
  • Absence of loans and grants for farmers and agropreneurs
  • Exposure to thieves
  • Inexperience among local farmers
  • Lack of standard varieties of seeds for planting

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Tangerine Farming Business in Nigeria: The Complete Guide

To Sum It Up

Agricultural production business can never go obsolete because there would be demand for food which would mean more demand for agricultural produce. The agricultural production business in Nigeria can be a lucrative and profitable venture to start-up, due to its vast market demand and on your ability to build a wide supply chain network. If you’re looking for a supply chain business to venture into, the agricultural business in Nigeria is a great option to explore.

Trying To Secure A Business Loan? Finance? Or Investment? You can now greatly increase your chances of getting the loan/investment you need with our bank and investor ready professional MBA standard business plan writing service. Writing a bank and investor ready professional agricultural production business plan can be challenging. If you need a professional and affordable business plan service, StartupTipsDaily’s MBA standard professional business plan writing service is perfect for your small business. All you have to do is request an understanding of your proposed business model, and you’d have a professional MBA standard business plan ready for you anywhere within 5 to 14 days. You can click here to get started with using StartupTipsDaily’s professional business plan writing service to create the perfect business plan that’d get accepted anywhere.

What are your thoughts on how to start an agricultural business in Nigeria? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

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HOW TO START A CATTLE REARING BUSINESS IN NIGERIA?

Looking for a resource or guide on “How to Start a Cattle rearing business In Nigeria”?

This article comes with a free business plan for Cattle Rearing business.

Cattle farming business involves the rearing of Cattle for the purpose of gaining profits by selling the stock or their finished products which in many cases is beef. It is very lucrative and can be ventured into by anyone with the funds to start up as it is a bit capital intensive determination to make money by hard work and also patience- it’s far from a GRQ (get-rich-quick) scheme, except maybe if you can somehow magically or scientifically speed up the growth of calves. Cattle is plural and general term for bovine species. Female cattle are popularly called Cow while the male is called a bull.

IS CATTLE REARING PROFITABLE IN NIGERIA?

Some full-grown cattle can sell for as high as 150,000-200,00 or more depending on the size of the animal and even the calves when they attain a certain weight can be sold, their meat is called veal and these can be sold for as low as 40,000-100,000 depending on their size, age and weight.

The thing about this business is that the product is consumed by most Nigerians thus making profit is inevitable. Beef (Cattle’s meat) is very popular in Nigeria and around Africa.  That means if you go into this business, you have a lot of customers in the lobby waiting for you.

In the cattle farming business, you have little to worry about when it comes to diseases, these animals are almost immune to every common disease.

While you bother yourself less about diseases, you might be concerned about the nature of the livestock, cattle naturally love moving around, this can be achieved by ranching and paddocking. However, you need to be alert of predators such as snakes and other brutal animals. You also must be careful of fields that have been sprayed with herbicides and other things that are poisonous to them and pose as a life threat.

Cattle farming business is very profitable, asides the meat (beef). There are many other profitable products form the animal that can fetch massive profits.  Milk, hides, faeces and its blood are also products that have a price in the Nigerian market.

The skin (hide) is used to make leather which is a very important part of fashion. The Cattle’s blood can also be used as part of the components of fertilizers and the faeces can also be utilized as manure to grow crops.

Type of Cattle farming

Cattle farming be classified based on their breeds. It has three main categories, which are;

  • Beef cattle: this breed is for the purpose of meat production 2. Dairy cattle: they are reared for milk production.
  • Dairy cattle: they are reared for milk production.
  • Dual-purpose Cattle: They are reared to produce milk and meat

 Economic advantages of Cattle farming in Nigeria

A. They are sources of beef and milk

B. They can be used on the farm as farm power for several purposes including ploughing and harrowing among others

C. Their hide is used for making leather

D. Their blood and bones are used as feed for chickens or other animals.

E. It provides employment.

F. Their faeces is a very good source of fertilizer for plants.

Steps to start Your cattle business

Follow these steps to start a Cattle farming business:

a. Make a plan

Your first step will be to make a good business plan. Deliberate on the number of cattle you want to start with; this usually depends on the capital at hand. Calculate the cost of their feeding, medications and other expenses. You must also know that this business takes patience.

b. Secure a good location

This is very important and must not be overlooked because your ROI depends on how your location. It should be a safe and optimal for the cattle, for your business too in terms of transportation, proximity to the market among other key factors.

It always good you secure a good land that can be conducive enough to accommodate the activities of your cattle. As a result of this, acres of spaces are needed.

c. Get the essential tools ready

The necessary equipment required for the successful rearing of the stock must be duly acquired prior to getting the stock. A fence and a shed should be erected in and around the location as the former keeps out predators and the latter is needed to secure the animals when there is heavy rain or scorching sun.

d. Acquire cattle

Cattle with a good history should be acquired, good history in this sense means cattle that has a history of high productivity, high fertility and reproduction and also high resistance to diseases

e. Employ the services of a vet doctor

A veterinary doctor is needed for the absolute safety of the cattle. The personnel might be in-house full-time or appointed based on a contract. This will help you in any case of emergency.

f. Employees

This is gradual as your business keeps growing over time. No matter how hardworking you are, you cannot do everything so a pair of hands will be needed and these hands will have to be paid too.

g. Marketing your Cattle

Cattle meat is very much in demand so there are really no humongous problems when it comes to marketing your product. There are many meat markets in scattered around all cities, you can supply your beef to them. You can sell directly to butchers. Another option is to sell the cut and well-packed meats to the supermarket and big restaurants. You can milk the cows and people will come for the milk. The possibilities span over a lot of opportunities and don’t seem to end.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CATTLE REARING BUSINESS PLAN

Things to watch out for in cattle farming in Nigeria

There are three major stages of rearing when preparing your cattle from a young age for the market:

  • Breeding to Calving(birth): Breeders are housed in a pen that is specially made for the new-born. The floor of the pen must be well concrete and galvanized roofing sheets. Cattle should attain an age of 24 months before breeding.
  • Birth of calf to weaning: After the birth of the calf, the mucous around the newborn should be immediately wiped out especially the ones in the nostrils of the animal, so that they can breathe with ease without delay. The calf should be helped in many cases by you so that they can take adequate milk.
  • Weaning to Finishing: the calves should be placed on a kind of diet of low roughages. There is also a need to restrict movement within the building pending the time they increase in size and weight.

I hope you now know “How to Start a Cattle Rearing Business In Nigeria”. With all these in place, you can start on a small scale. Cows do not necessarily eat processed animal feeds, your cost of production will be low because they will be eating natural nutritious plants in their pasture that grows on their own.

How To Download The Complete Cattle Rearing Business Plan In Nigeria PDF and Doc

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How to start a Cattle farming business in Nigeria

Adebayor Peter

  • Updated March 22, 2024
  • Read Time 6 mins

How to a start Cattle farming business in Nigeria

Cattle farming business involves the rearing of Cattle for commercial purposes. It is a very profitable business that anyone can get into and make money. While it is very profitable, it can be a little bit capital intensive. Cattle is a plural and general term for bovine species. Female cattle are popularly called Cow while the male is called bull.

Even though it is costly to maintain, it is a profitable business that anyone can do and get unlimited profits from. Therefore, it has been tagged as one of most lucrative businesses in Nigeria. You can sell a full-grown cattle for about N200, 000 and even more in some cases. Let’s discuss the benefits attached to Cattle farming business.

Table of Contents

The undeniable profits/benefits in Cattle farming

Type of cattle farming, economic advantages of cattle farming in nigeria, 1. make a plan, 2. secure a good location, 3. get the essential tools ready, 4. acquire cattle, 5. employ a vet doctor, 6. employees, 7. marketing your cattle, things to watch out for in cattle farming in nigeria.

The joyful thing about this business is that the product is consumed by most Nigerians. Beef (Cattle’s meat) is very popular in Nigeria and around Africa.  That means if you go into this business, you have millions of potential customers waiting for you.

In the cattle farming business, you don’t have to concern yourself so much about diseases, because this specie of animal is duly immune to large amount of diseases.

While you bother yourself less about diseases, because of the nature of the livestock, cattle love moving around. You may need to take them through grazing which is their main mode of feeding. However, you need to be alert of predators such as snakes and other brutal animals. You also must be careful of fields that has been sprayed with poison.

Cattle farming business is very profitable beyond the meat (beef). There are many other opportunities to make money in this business.  Cattle also produce milk. You can even make more money from the milk than the meat.

The skin (hide) is used to make leather which is a very important part of fashion. The Cattle’s blood can also be used as part of the components of fertilizers and the faeces can also be utilized as a manure to grow crops. There are different breeds of cattle such as Azawal, sokoto gudali, wadata, white Fulani and some other breeds.

It is important we remind ourselves that they are ruminant animal with horns and two pair of toes. They are most rated for the purpose of meat supply because when we visualize the rate at which meat is being consumed, we will discover that it is a good business to venture into. They are also rated for milk, hide and skin, manure and as draught animals to work on the farm.

Cattle farming be classified based on their breeds. It has three main categories, which are;

  • Beef cattle: this breed is for the purpose of meat production
  • Dairy cattle: they are reared for milk production.
  • Dual purpose Cattle: They are reared to produce milk and meat
  • They provide meat and milk
  • They can be used in farm for the purpose of ploughing.
  • The hide and skin are used for fashion
  • Their blood and bones are uses for meal and feeds for chickens or other animals.
  • It is also a source of employment and income to people.
  • Their feaces is a very good source of fertilizer for plants.
  • Source of revenue to some territories.
  • Fertilizers can be gotten from blood, bones, and offal of cattle.

Steps to start a cattle business

Follow these steps to start a Cattle farming business:

Your first step will be to strategize and develop a good business plan. Decide the number of the cattle you want to start with depending on the capital you have on ground. Count the cost of their feeding, medications and other expenses. You must also know that this business takes patient, so you must apply patient.

This is vital because all your investment depends on how good your location is. It should be a highly safe and secure location within a trustworthy community, It also should not be so far from the town or city, because you might get buyers.

It always good you secure a good land that can be conducive enough to accommodate the activities of your cattle. As a result of this, acres of spaces are needed.

Acquire the necessary equipment that is needed to rear the animals. You will also need to build a fence around the location. The cows will also need shed to secure themselves when there is rain or excess sun.

Your next step should be to acquire the cattle that you need to start with. You can get them from local market scattered around the country. It is advisable that you go with someone who has been into the business to guide you.

  A veterinary doctor is needed for absolute safety of the cattle. This will help you in case of emergency. They will also help you ensure that your cattle develop good stamina and fat.

This is gradual as your business keeps getting bigger. The truth is that you can’t do everything, so you will need assistance of some other parties of which you will need to pay them in return. The best set of people to employ are the herdsmen.

Cattle meat is very much in demand so you should have no problem. There are many meat markets in scattered around all cities, you can supply meas to them.

You can sell directly to butchers. Another option is to sell the cut and well packed meats to supermarket and big restaurants. You can milk the cows and people will come for the milk. The possibility is endless.

Management of cattle: how to take care of the cattle is vital. There are three major ways you can manage your cattle from young age to market size:

  • Breeding to calving(birth) : breeders are housed in a pen that is specially made for the new-borns. The floor of the pen must be well concrete and galvanized roofing sheets. Bulls and heifers should be at least 24 months before breeding.
  • Birth of calf to weaning : After the birth of the calf, the mocous around the new born should be immediately wiped out especially the nostril part, so that they can breathe with ease without delay. The calf should be helped in many cases by you so that they can take adequate milk. Another model to manage cattle is by castrating them so that they can grow fat and fresh, suitable for meat. It also supports you control indiscriminate mating.
  • Weaning to Finishing : the calves should be placed on a kind of diet that can help them with high concentration and low roughages. There is also a need to restrict movement within the building pending the time they increase in statue.

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Adebayor Peter

Adebayor Peter

Adebayor Peter is a contributor at MakeMoney.ng. He is a graduate of Ladoke Akintola University. He loves writing and public relation

How to market a business in Nigeria

16 Comments

I’m interested

I am interested in cattle farming

Waoo i am interested

I have already started…

How is it so far?

Can you please share your experience

I really appreciate how you enlighten people in some businesses

Good one ,I have interest also in the cattle farming.

Interested so badly, but how much is the calf sold.

I am interested as well

How to invest and how to have the I’d card

I am interested in cow farming, but what is my concern is their food during dry seasons

I’m very much interested in cattle farming. Please I need further mentoring

I love the simplicity of your article. I am interested

I’m interested, how much do I need to start the business?

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business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

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Table of Contents

Explore a comprehensive guide to starting a successful pig farm in Nigeria. Learn about profitable pig breeds, proper nutrition, and essential biosecurity measures.

Pig farming in Nigeria presents a compelling opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs and established farmers. As a crucial source of protein, pork is a staple in many Nigerian households. With a constantly rising demand and a favorable market, pig farming offers the potential for significant profitability.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower both new and experienced pig farmers. Whether you’re taking your first steps in this venture or seeking to optimize your existing operations, this blog post equips you with the knowledge and strategies to thrive in the Nigerian pig farming industry.

swine pig

Unlocking the Potential of Pig Farming in Nigeria’s Booming Pork Market

Nigeria’s agricultural sector is brimming with opportunities, and pig farming stands out as a particularly promising venture. With a rapidly growing population and a rising appetite for protein, the demand for pork in Nigeria is skyrocketing. This surge in demand, coupled with the inherent advantages of pig farming, makes it an attractive option for both established farmers and aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs. ALSO READ HERE: How to Start a Pig Farming Business in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)

Benefits of Pig Farming in Nigeria:

  • High Return on Investment (ROI): One of the most significant advantages of pig farming is its short gestation period. Sows can farrow (give birth) twice a year, with litters ranging from 10 to 15 piglets. This rapid reproduction cycle translates to quicker returns on investment compared to other livestock options.
  • Relatively Low Start-Up Costs: Compared to ventures like cattle ranching, pig farming requires a lower initial investment. Housing for pigs can be simpler and less expensive to construct, and pigs themselves generally have lower feed costs due to their efficient feed conversion rate.
  • Manure as a Valuable Fertilizer: Pig manure is a rich source of organic fertilizer, which can significantly reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and improve soil quality. This translates to cost savings for farmers and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Multiple Products: Pig farming offers a variety of income streams beyond just pork meat. Pig skin, for example, is a valuable commodity used in the production of gelatin and leather goods. This diversification of products helps mitigate risks and provides additional revenue sources.

Market Demand for Pork in Nigeria:

  • Increasing Population: Nigeria’s population is projected to continue its rapid growth in the coming years. This growing population base translates to a larger consumer market for pork, creating a steady demand for pig farmers.
  • Growing Preference for Protein: As Nigerians become more health-conscious, the demand for protein-rich foods is on the rise. Pork is a high-quality protein source that is both affordable and versatile, making it an attractive option for consumers.
  • Limitations on Pork Imports: The Nigerian government has implemented restrictions on pork imports in recent years. This policy aims to encourage domestic pork production and presents an opportunity for local pig farmers to meet the growing demand.

From Piglet to Profit: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Thriving Pig Farm in Nige ria

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every crucial step, from crafting a business plan to ensuring the health and well-being of your pigs.

Developing a Solid Business Plan:

A strong business plan acts as the roadmap for your pig farm’s journey. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • SMART Goals: Set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Do you want to raise a specific number of pigs within a certain timeframe?
  • Market Research: Who are your target customers? Are you aiming to sell to local butcher shops, supermarkets, or directly to consumers? Understanding your competitors’ pricing and offerings will also be crucial.
  • Financial Projections: This involves creating a detailed budget that outlines your startup costs, operational expenses (feed, veterinary care), and projected revenue from pig sales.
  • Legal Considerations: Research and obtain all necessary permits and licenses required to operate a pig farm in your area.

Choosing the Perfect Pig Breed:

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

Selecting the right pig breed depends on several factors:

  • Climate: Consider breeds that thrive in Nigeria’s climate.
  • Growth Rate: How quickly will your pigs reach market weight?
  • Meat Quality: Do you want pigs known for marbling, lean meat, or a specific flavor profile?

Popular choices in Nigeria include Duroc, Landrace, and Large White breeds, each offering distinct advantages.

Securing the Ideal Location and Land:

The right location plays a critical role in your farm’s success:

  • Market Accessibility: Choose land close to your target markets to minimize transportation costs.
  • Biosecurity: Maintain a safe distance from residential areas to prevent the spread of diseases.
  • Land Size: The amount of land you need depends on the size of your pig herd. Ensure you have ample space for housing, waste management, and future expansion.

Building Functional Housing and Shelter:

Pigs require comfortable and secure housing to thrive. Here are some key considerations:

  • Housing Systems: Popular options include open pens or confinement buildings.
  • Ventilation and Drainage: Proper ventilation ensures fresh air and prevents respiratory issues. Good drainage is essential to manage waste effectively.
  • Waste Management: Develop a plan for manure collection and disposal that adheres to environmental regulations.

Ensuring Proper Feeding and Nutrition:

Providing your pigs with a balanced diet is vital for optimal growth and health. Explore these feeding options:

  • Essential Nutrients: Pigs need protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals for proper development.
  • Feed Types and Sources: Commercial feed offers a balanced mix of nutrients. Alternatively, you can explore incorporating crop residues into their diet.
  • Developing a Feeding Plan: Create a customized feeding plan based on your pigs’ age, breed, and growth stage.

SHOP FEED HERE

Breeding and Management Practices:

A well-managed breeding program is essential for long-term farm sustainability:

  • Breeding Stock Selection: Choose healthy, high-quality breeding pigs from reputable sources.
  • Mating Strategies: Decide on natural mating or artificial insemination based on your goals and resources.
  • Pregnancy Care and Farrowing: Provide proper care for pregnant sows to ensure healthy litters. Learn about farrowing procedures to assist during childbirth.

Maintaining a Healthy Herd:

Protecting your pigs from diseases is crucial for animal welfare and farm profitability.

  • Common Pig Diseases in Nigeria: Familiarize yourself with prevalent pig diseases in your region.
  • Vaccination Schedules: Develop a vaccination program to prevent common illnesses.
  • Biosecurity Protocols: Implement biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of disease introduction and transmission. Regularly clean and disinfect housing areas to maintain a healthy environment.

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

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business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

Business Plan

Cattle Farming Business Plan in Nigeria

by BusinessPlan Leave a Comment

Cattle Farming Business Plan in Nigeria- Cow meat is common to many Nigerian homes as it is a daily consumable in many homes in the Nigerian shores. Cattle refers to a group of one or more cows, or bulls or a mix of both. A cow is the female breed of the animal while the male is called the bull.

Get your Cattle Farming Business Plan in Nigeria and feasibility study. pay N10,000 to:

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Account Name:  Chibuzor Tochi Onyemenam

Account Number: 0044056891

After payment, send your name, email address and “cattle rearing business plan in Nigeria” to  07033378184

Cattle come in varying kinds; some cattle breeds grow big in a very short while; such breeds are better reared for their meat and the accessories embedded in their body. Some cattle breeds are more suitable for producing milk; therefore depending on the form of cattle farming which the farmer engages in, there are several cattle options he/ she could choose.

Female cattle are usually reared for the milk it produces, as well as their fertility prospects. Female cattle are prevalent in the cattle rearing circle, and a herd of cattle is usually a combination of many females and a few male cattle. Female cattle are typically left to live for as long as possible on the farm before they are slaughtered for their meat because cattle farm owners want the cows to produce as many young cattle as possible before the cows are killed. And because a cow takes about nine months to give birth to another cow, female cattle is considered very precious in the cattle rearing farm.

Asides all these; it is also expedient to understand that female cattle are the source of many dairy products which we consume in our daily lives. This is the reason why female cattle are considered very precious because they produce young cattle, milk, cowhides, leather and ultimately, meat.

Bulls are reared more for their meat. Although bulls are also important to the reproduction process of cattle, they are considered of less economic value compared to cows. Bulls also have their advantages, especially when they rea bred for their meat and their hides. With bulls, cattle farmers can use artificial insemination to ensure the productivity of the bulls. Cattle rearing can be an exciting venture in the fact that cattle barely gets attacked by any illnesses, and they are mostly resistant to diseases. With the proper dossier of care, cattle rearing is usually a very fantastic experience for its farmers. Cattle rearing is not as expensive to maintain as many assume it to be; there are several ways to go about it.

The Prospects of Cattle Rearing in Nigeria

The meat consuming population of Nigeria is quite large, and the number of cattle within the Nigerian shores are not enough to sustain the meat consumption capacity of the Nigerian nation. It, therefore, tells that anyone that cattle rearing holds a lot of prospects for people who engage in them, especially in Nigeria.

The skin of cattle is also used to make a lot of value giving products in Nigeria. The skin of cattle is used to make Ponmo; Ponmo is the local name for the thick skin that is on the back of cows. The Ponmo market is one that thrives well in the Nigerian community, and it is one that will continue to do so for a very long time. Some parts of the Nigerian community use the skin of cattle to make shoes, and other leather wears.

Whatever the case may be, you can be sure that the cattle market is one that is quite profitable in Nigeria. The blood of cattle is sometimes cooked to make food for fishes, and this is also something of high economic value.

Some female cattle breeds produce a lot of milk, and so they are raised primarily of their milking prowesses, and this is another valuable part of the cattle rearing field. The milk production industry in Nigeria majorly sources its raw cattle milk from outside the country. Still, if we can have cattle farms that can level up to the demands of milk production in Nigeria, the prospects are just uncountable for the cattle farmers in Nigeria.

There is a breed of cattle called draught cattle; this breed of cattle is used in Northern Nigeria for labour work on farms and lands. During the dry season when land clearing is ongoing in preparation for the planting season; draught cattle are used to make ridges on drylands that would have taken a whole lot more of human efforts to heap up. Draught cattle are also used to weed farmlands in the process of the germination of many plants and crops. Now, some will say the use of draught cattle is getting outdated, as there are tractors and more mechanized ways of clearing and maintaining farmlands. However, these mechanized farming methods are quite expensive, and there are not so many that can afford it. So, draught cattle are still very relevant in Northern Nigeria, and as a matter of fact, there are no so many machines that can remove weeds among grown plants, and draught cattle can do this.

Challenge of Cattle Rearing in Nigeria

Like any other kind of farming, cattle farming has a few challenging constraints in Nigeria, and we will highlight some of those challenges in the following lines:

  • The tsetse fly challenge The major challenge of cattle rearing in Nigeria is the fact that Nigeria has a lot of tsetse fly, and tsetse fly can reduce the productivity of cattle farms in that it can result in the death of cattle.
  • Grazing The grazing challenge is one that is more common in urban areas of Nigeria. With the progressive urban development in the Nigerian nation, the amount of grazing land upon which cattle can feed is consistently reducing.
  • Capital Intensive Cattle farming is generally capital intensive, and while it has a lot of profitable prospects in the long run. It is not one that yields any meaningful return in the short term, and this has caused a lot of people to look in another direction in the search for profitable investments. This challenge is majorly prominent at the early stage of setting up the cattle farm.

How to Start a Cattle Farm in Nigeria

Starting a cattle farm in Nigeria involves a series of a carefully detailed plan. Unlike many other forms of agricultural farming systems, cattle farming is quite capital intensive and will require a little more attention to detail than other types of farming would.

The following are the steps to starting a cattle farm in Nigeria:

  • The goals of the cattle farm The goals will determine what should be or not be done on the cattle farm. The goal should clearly state out why you as the business owner is starting the cattle farm, the things you hope to achieve with the farm, and of course the impact you hope to make with the farm. The goal will give a clear sense of direction which the cattle farm will follow, and when this direction is there; the chances of success increases.
  • The best Cattle Breed that Fits Your Location and Goals Depending on why you are starting the cattle farm, there are many breeds of cattle available in the market, and each breed has a unique set of advantage which give them an edge over others. Draught cattle, for example, are more suitable for labour-intensive tasks, and so they would be more suited to someone who intends rearing cattle to provide land clearing and farm weeding services as an integral part of his/ her farm services. N’dama and Muturu cattle breeds are more suited for meat production. At the same time, Fulani white, Sokoto Gudali, Adamawa Gudali, Guernsey, and Bokoto are cattle breeds more suited for their milking. So they are options you should look at if you intend raising cattle for dairy.
  • The price of each cattle you intend to have on your farm
  • The price of land acquisition
  • The cost of running the farm for at least six months without any income from it
  • Human labour costs
  • The cost of health and veterinary treatments
  • Cost of setting up pens for the cattle
  • Feeding cost (daily, weekly, and monthly) for at least six months
  • Other things need to be in the business plan for a cattle farm. However, you can research more about them before setting up your farm.
  • Capital A cattle farm is a capital intensive venture and would sometimes require the business owner to go over the edge to get things together financially when starting. In gathering capital for your cattle rearing business in Nigeria, you should put into consideration the fact that buying young cattle will cost less than buying old and matured ones. Both buys have their advantages and demerits. Buying young cattle will save the cost of purchasing the cattle, but will cost more to nurture into maturity before the cattle can start producing young ones. Buying matured cattle will cost more; however, it will cost less to nurture them into productivity. All these must be put into consideration when gathering capital for your cattle rearing business. You must also put the location into consideration the location where you want to rear your cattle in the plan to raise capital for your business.
  • Cattle Housing In Nigeria, cattle are usually housed in an open space; however, cattle farm owners build are pens where the cattle can hide from the scorching of the sun or the rain. The pens give the cattle a common breeding ground to share heat in times of cold. It is generally wise to make the pens of cattle very small compared to the land size of the whole farm. The fence of the lands where cattle are housed is usually a netted one that’s strong enough to stop the cattle from pulling down the fencing structure and allows the easy visibility of the farm from afar.
  • Protecting cattle It is advisable to have dogs in your cattle farm, as they would bark on sighting prospective danger for your cattle. Ducks are also another set of animals used to protect cattle from imminent danger. Ducks have very sharp eyes and can see snakes from afar off, asides the fact that they can see snakes afar off, ducks can also fight and kill snakes with their strong beaks.

After payment, send your name, email address and “feasibility study on cattle farming in Nigeria” to  07033378184

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8 Most Lucrative Agricultural And Farming Business Ideas In Nigeria

What are the best agricultural business ideas to start in Nigeria in 2023? The Agricultural sector contributes just a little over 20% to the overall GDP of the country, even though it can be much more.

The agricultural sector is one of the most flourishing sectors of the Nigerian economy. With proper strategic planning, anyone with basic knowledge of farming and manufacturing operations can start a profitable agriculture business.

You don’t need a huge capital or farmland to enter the agriculture business. If you have a little piece of land in your backyard, you can still plant some crops in small or vertical containers to get the most out of your space.

In this post, we shared a list of the most lucrative agricultural and farming business ideas anyone in Nigeria can start in 2023.

1. Cassava Farming.

With the increasingly diverse use of cassava products in Nigeria, cassava farming is getting more lucrative daily. This farm product has always been a source of lively hood and food for millions of Nigerians. 90% of Nigerian households consume cassava products every day. Some popular meals made out of cassava are garri, wheat flour, animal feed, commercial caramel, and a lot more.

As the population of Nigeria and Africa as a whole continues to grow, the demand for cassava products will continue to skyrocket, leading to higher revenues generated by cassava farmers. If you’re looking for an agricultural business that ensures you always almost sell out all your harvests, cassava farming is one great business to start.

Also Read: How To Start A Profitable Business In Nigeria.

2. Poultry Farming.

Poultry farming is the process of raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese to farm meat or eggs for food. Poultry Farming in Nigeria is probably one of the most lucrative farming businesses you can do. The quick maturity of chicken presents one of the finest opportunities for entrepreneurs to make good money within the shortest period of time possible.

With over 160 Million consumers in Nigeria alone, the market is always there, waiting to be tapped. The demand for poultry products such as eggs is so high that people go about every day looking for where to get the supplies needed.

3. Rice Farming.

Nigeria is the largest producer of rice in West Africa and the third in Africa after Egypt and Madagascar producing about 3.6 million metric tons on average annually. Interestingly, Nigeria still falls short of meeting its local demand, which is about 5.5 million tons.

Because Nigeria has a vast market for rice, if you are looking for a lucrative agricultural business idea in Nigeria, you need to seriously consider entering the rice farming business, which is undoubtedly one of the most profitable businesses in the Nigerian agricultural sector.

4. Snail Farming.

Snail farming is considered one of the most lucrative agribusinesses you can start with low capital in Nigeria today. Yet, it is one of the most neglected animal-rearing businesses in the country. Snail farming in Nigeria provides one of the finest opportunities to make money within a short period of time.

Snail farming is a niche and unusual business type of business. It’s very expensive to buy snails to eat because snails are very dormant during the dry season, they become increasingly scarce during this period, and the market is starved of adequate supply until the next wet season.

Also Read: Top Five (5) Challenges Of Doing Business In Nigeria.

5. Catfish Farming.

Many kinds of fish are growing in Nigeria; however, many people like catfish because its meat is juicy, soft, and tasty. However, not everyone knows that this fish can be grown quickly; even on a small farm, you can organize catfish farming at home.

There’s a very high demand for catfishes all year round. The demand is highest from football viewing centers, restaurants, and market women who buy in bulk and sell in retail as live catfish or smoked catfish. Individuals also demand catfish too for personal consumption. With catfish farming, you’ll never have any problem selling your products.

6. Maize Farming.

The Maize farming business has definitely been thriving in Nigeria for decades. Maize, also known as corn, is one of Africa’s most popular food crops. Maize is cooked in various ways, and millions of Nigerians rely on this crop because it usually costs less than wheat, rice, and other common grains and cereals.

The importance of Maize production in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. A lot of by-products are obtained from Maize. Maize production gives birth to many other consumables, including Pap, Custard, Corn Oil, Alcohol, Cornflake, Animal/Livestock Feeds, Corn Flour, Corn Starch, and Corn Powder.

7. Pig Farming.

Pig farming in Nigeria is one of the most lucrative and profitable livestock businesses. Commercial pig farming is beneficial because pigs are prolific breeders and can deliver 10 to 14 piglets in a single birth.

Pig meat (pork) has an excellent demand since red meat is a good source of protein and is tasty. The pork market in West Africa alone accounts for about $3 billion in consumption value. 80% of that is sourced by importation. That is a lot of untapped revenue.

Also Read: Simple Ways To Reduce Your Business Expenses.

8. Honey Bee Farming.

Honey bees can produce lots of honey, and selling honey can be a lucrative business for people who aren’t allergic to bee stings, who don’t have a lot of money, and who have little space in their backyard to farm their honey bees.

Honey is one of the oldest sweeteners on earth. Lucky for us, it also has many health benefits and uses. Keeping bees at a large scale for commercial purposes as a business plan is increasing in this fast-growing world.

Conclusion.

There’s a surge of interest in the Agricultural sector in Nigeria. Many entrepreneurs are taking on various areas of agriculture, disrupting and transforming them into viably successful endeavors using information technology.

From maize farming and rice production to poultry farming and fishery. Farming is starting to recover its age-old respectable reputation.

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The future of livestock in nigeria: opportunities and challenges in the face of uncertainty, attachments.

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Nigerian decision makers have to grapple with so many uncertainties from multiple directions that prioritizing interventions and holding a straight course prove a daunting task. In the next decades, population growth, urbanization, smart technological innovations and adoptions, increased movements of people and goods, not to mention climate change, will thoroughly transform Nigerian society, in ways that are often unpredictable.

Take the livestock sector: its development is fundamental to support the transformation of the country in a sustainable way socially, environmentally and from a public health perspective. In these circumstances, a robust analysis of livestock production systems and value chains, an understanding of trends in consumption of animal source foods, and an assessment of returns to different investments are essential to formulate and prioritize policy actions. However, this alone does not ensure that policies will support a sustainable growth of livestock into a future that, to a large extent, is uncertain. Take a moment and ponder over these questions: in the next three decades, how will technology uptake affect livestock productivity? How will the feed-food competition unfold? How will livestock value chains transform to satisfy the demand of an increasingly affluent and urbanized population? We must humbly admit that we can neither easily predict nor precisely plan the long-term future of livestock in Nigeria.

The Government of Nigeria, with support from FAO and USAID, engaged a multitude of stakeholders in a conversation around the knowns and unknowns of the future of the cattle and poultry sectors in the country. They discussed past and projected trends of societal and livestock dynamics, current policy priorities, technology uptake and institutional changes and other. Stakeholders did not predict or forecast with accuracy the future of the cattle and poultry sectors in Nigeria, but generated evidence on alternative, yet all plausible futures. The report “The future of livestock in Nigeria:

Opportunities and challenges in the face of uncertainty” looks out to 2050 and presents alternative scenarios, or plausible portrays, of the future of the cattle and poultry sectors in Nigeria.

It provides invaluable insights to decision-makers on actions to take today to make the Nigerian cattle and poultry systems more robust and resilient to an uncertain future, and sustainable from a social, environmental and public health perspective. It makes a strong case to broaden our perspective and take a forward-looking approach when designing policies and investments in dynamic and rapidly changing societies, such as that of Nigeria. We are grateful to stakeholders from across Nigeria, and to FAO and USAID in particular, who provided the invaluable expertise and knowledge that underpin this report.

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  • Introduction
  • The National Livestock Transformation Plan
  • Implementation to Date
  • An enthusiasm and communications gap
  • Wavering political leadership and bureaucratic inertia
  • COVID-19 and funding
  • Land acquisition
  • Insufficient technical expertise
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  • Establish Structures for Sustainability
  • Address Transhumant Pastoralism and Climate Change

Appendix A: Map of Nigeria

A cattle herder stands as he tends to his cows in Ngurore, Adamawa State, northeastern Nigeria, on 20 February 2019, just a few days ahead of the 2019 country's general election.

Ending Nigeria’s Herder-Farmer Crisis: The Livestock Reform Plan

Nigeria’s latest plan for curbing herder-farmer conflict is facing obstacles, including staff and funding shortages as well as political opposition. If this initiative fails, there could be more rural violence. Abuja should work with donors to raise both money and awareness of the scheme’s benefits.

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What’s new?  In 2019, Nigerian authorities launched a ten-year National Livestock Transformation Plan to curtail the movement of cattle, boost livestock production and quell the country’s lethal herder-farmer conflict. But inadequate political leadership, delays, funding uncertainties and a lack of expertise could derail the project. COVID-19 has exacerbated the challenges.

Why did it happen?  Violence fuelled by environmental degradation and competition over land has aggravated long-running tensions in the country’s northern and central regions. A surge in bloodshed in 2018 prompted Nigeria’s federal government to formulate a far-reaching set of reforms for the livestock sector.

Why does it matter?  The new Plan represents Nigeria’s most comprehensive strategy yet to encourage pastoralists to switch to ranching and other sedentary livestock production systems. Modernising the livestock sector is key to resolving the herder-farmer conflict, which threatens Nigeria’s political stability and food security.

What should be done?  Federal and state authorities, working with donors and investors, should prioritise securing funds, training personnel and communicating the Plan’s benefits to herders and farmers. Making progress on pilot ranches, donor commitments and staff training before the 2023 election, and ensuing change of administration, may help preserve the Plan’s post-election viability.

Executive Summary

Nigeria’s federal and state governments are struggling to implement a National Livestock Transformation Plan that seeks to curb the movement of cattle across the country and reduce deadly herder-farmer conflict. While the Plan has earned the endorsement of many state governments, it faces significant challenges. Deficient political leadership, popular misperceptions about its purpose, budgetary constraints aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a lack of personnel with the expertise to carry it out and widespread insecurity are all hindering progress. If the Plan fails – as previous initiatives to modernise livestock management did – herder-farmer violence could escalate. Federal and state governments should do more to publicise the Plan and win the support of both herders and farmers. These authorities should also work with donors and investors to fill funding gaps and to build capacity for implementation. Finally, Abuja should make sure the Plan’s enactment takes into account the projected impact of climate change and also develop a strategy for dealing with non-Nigerian migratory herders.

Approved by the National Economic Council in January 2019, the Plan represents the most comprehensive effort to date to overhaul Nigeria’s inefficient and grossly underperforming livestock system. At the core is a strategy to curtail migratory or open grazing and thus lower the risk of conflict between herders and farmers. It is animated by the hope that over a period of ten years, predominantly nomadic pastoralists will be persuaded to move their cattle into ranches and public grazing reserves, where breeding farms and other mechanised livestock management practices are to bolster the sector’s productivity. By the end of 2028, authorities aim to have at least 119 ranches operating in all participating states, creating over two million jobs in the livestock production, processing and marketing chains.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration came up with the Plan following a wave of violence between herders and farmers – and particularly a surge in related violence afflicting rural dwellers in 2018. The federal government, which has committed to fund 80 per cent of the transformation proposals submitted by participating states, has taken preliminary steps toward putting the Plan into practice, including by providing technical support to help states prepare for implementation, such as help with field surveys and site mapping. Several states have reactivated earlier-demarcated grazing reserves, opened offices and set up steering committees to administer the Plan. Authorities have also held workshops and done other work to explain the benefits of livestock reform to a larger audience.

But two years into the ten-year Plan, the first new ranch has yet to be built, and the obstacles are many. Opposition, partly among herders predominantly from the Fulani ethnic group but also among farmers who resent the Plan’s benefits to pastoralists, hinders reform efforts. Distrust is widespread in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, which has been the scene of violent disputes over land between herders and farmers, notwithstanding peacemaking and military efforts that since 2018 have reduced the bloodshed. Federal and state budgets are pinched, partly due to the pandemic’s economic fallout, and the country lacks sufficient technical expertise for managing ranches and grazing reserves. In many states, especially in the North West, the proliferation of criminal gangs and other armed groups is cutting off access to grazing reserves and scaring away potential investors. Unless addressed, these and other problems could delay or even scuttle the Plan, leaving the country vulnerable to an escalation of herder-farmer conflict, which could degenerate into wider ethnic, regional and religious violence.

Tackling these challenges requires a concerted effort by federal and state authorities, with help from donors and investors. First, Abuja and supportive state governments should provide stronger political leadership and improve public communication to dispel misgivings and misperceptions about the Plan. These are especially prevalent among pastoralists, who will be asked to change a centuries-old nomadic lifestyle, and who legitimately doubt the Plan’s promises about available pasture. But many farmers are fearful, too, worrying that they may lose land to livestock producers. Many in the Middle Belt and southern states remain deeply suspicious of the Plan’s long-term goals, which they see as creating privileges for herders and more broadly the Fulani.

With Abuja’s and other partners’ support, state governments must build expertise and technical capacity, especially for managing ranches and grazing reserves, dairy production and meat processing. Federal and state governments should also up budgetary commitments, hasten the release of funds and provide financial transparency to ensure accountability, working with donors and investors as necessary. Addressing rural insecurity, curbing impunity and rehabilitating communities adversely affected by earlier violence in participating states are also vital. Plus, authorities will need to consider climate change’s likely impact and reach a decision about how the transhumant herders who cross into Nigeria seasonally should or should not benefit from the Plan.

While some of these steps will take time, the Plan’s proponents should focus on delivering concrete, visible results on a relatively short-term basis. Less than two years from now, the country will hold general elections. If the Plan is to survive the change of government that will follow, politicians may need to be able to produce clear proof of its benefits. (Having served two terms, President Buhari and many state governors are ineligible to compete, meaning that change is certain.) Ideally, by the time campaigning heats up in late 2022, the Plan’s backers should be able to point to at least a handful of newly constructed ranches or rehabilitated reserves, strong donor and investor commitments, and the first of a cadre of newly trained livestock management professionals.

None of this will be easy, but the Plan is worth the effort. While far from perfect, it offers an important chance to reform Nigeria’s livestock system with a strategy that addresses the needs of both herders and small-scale farmers. About 70 per cent of Nigeria’s work force earns an income through agriculture. Modernising the livestock sector could boost the country’s prosperity overall at the same time that it takes a big step toward resolving one of Nigeria’s most dangerous conflicts. With the clock ticking down to the 2023 elections, federal and state authorities will need to move quickly to make a visible mark, lest the work they have done to create this moment of opportunity be lost.

Abuja/Dakar/Nairobi/Brussels, 4 May 2021

Africa is especially vulnerable to climate change. Our new Interactive explores how the security implications of changing weather patterns are visible in deadly land resource disputes between farmers and herders across the continent – including in Nigeria.

I. Introduction

Violence between herders and farmers in Nigeria has grown deadlier over the past decade. Climatic change, high population growth, environmental degradation, the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East and organised crime (including massive cattle rustling) in the North West, have forced large numbers of pastoralists in the north to migrate south in search of pasture and water. Their migration in turn has triggered disputes with sedentary crop farmers, especially in the North Central geopolitical zone, but also across the three zones in the south. [fn] Nigeria has 36 states, grouped into six geopolitical zones based on geographical proximity and ethnic similarities as well as shared political and administrative histories. The zones are North West, North Central, North East, South West, South East and South South. The North Central zone is sometimes loosely referred to as the Middle Belt, but in other usage, the Middle Belt also includes parts of the North East and North West where numerous ethnic minorities oppose the “hegemony” of the larger Hausa and Fulani groups. For background on the herder-farmer conflict, see Crisis Group Africa Report N°252, Herders against Farmers: Nigeria’s Expanding Deadly Conflict , 19 September 2017. See also “Harvest of Death: Three Years of Bloody Clashes between Farmers and Herders in Nigeria”, Amnesty International, 2018; “Farmer-Herder Conflict in Northern Nigeria: Trends, Dynamics and Gender Perspectives”, Centre for Democracy and Development, April 2021; and “Trends and Dynamics of Conflicts between Farmers and Pastoralists in Nigeria’s Benue Valley ”, Zinariya Consults Limited, Open Society Initiative for West Africa and Global Rights, 2021. Hide Footnote

Since 2015, violent flare-ups in these parts of the country, particularly armed attacks on communities, have killed thousands of people, disrupted rural economies and threatened the country’s stability. [fn] See Crisis Group Africa Report N°262, Stopping Nigeria’s Spiralling Farmer-Herder Violence , 26 July 2018; and “Harvest of Death: Three Years of Bloody Clashes between Farmers and Herders in Nigeria”, op. cit. Hide Footnote In the Middle Belt, comprising the North Central zone as well as parts of the North East and North West, a combination of military operations and local peace agreements has proven effective in tempering the worst violence from late 2018 onward, but attacks involving herders and farmers continue. [fn] Key military operations include Operation Safe Haven in Plateau state and Operation Whirlstroke in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba states. There have also been many peace efforts and dialogues, some driven by state agencies such as the Kaduna Peace Commission and the Plateau Peace Agency, others by non-governmental organisations like the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and Search for Common Ground, and still others by the UN Development Programme under its “Integrated Approach to Building Peace in Nigeria’s Farmer-Herder Crisis”, a project that is part of its Peacebuilding Fund. The latter was executed jointly with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, UN Women, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and a range of Nigerian implementing partners (governmental and non-governmental) in Nasarawa, Taraba and Benue states from January 2019 to June 2020. Hide Footnote In the North West, what started as a contest over land between herders and farmers has evolved into wider violence involving an array of armed groups – militias, vigilantes and criminal gangs – that risks paving the way for a new jihadist insurgency, on top of the decade-old Boko Haram conflict in the North East. [fn] See Crisis Group Africa Report N°288, Violence in Nigeria’s North West: Rolling Back the Mayhem , 18 May 2020. For an earlier study that traces the evolution of herder-farmer conflict and the corresponding rise in crime in northern Nigeria, see Mohammed J. Kuna and Jibrin Ibrahim (eds.), Rural Banditry and Conflicts in Northern Nigeria (Abuja, 2015). Hide Footnote

In the country’s three southern zones (South East, South West and South South), the increasingly frequent trespass on farms, deadly clashes between herders and local farmers, and criminal acts by armed gangs camped alongside – and often undistinguishable from – the predominantly forest-dwelling Fulani herders have fuelled widespread anti-herder and anti-Fulani sentiment. [fn] In Ondo state in the South West geopolitical zone, public dismay over the activities of criminals hiding in forests where cattle herds graze prompted the governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, to issue an order on 18 January 2021 requiring all herders to register with local governments or face eviction within seven days. In neighbouring Oyo state, an ethnic Yoruba rights activist, Sunday Igboho, ordered all Fulani to leave the state within seven days, and followed up by evicting several Fulani communities as the ultimatum expired. In Abia state, members of the government-outlawed secessionist group Indigenous People of Biafra attacked and burned down some herders’ settlements. See “Herdsmen, communities clashes: Tension, anxiety in Oyo, Ogun, Edo, Abia”, Daily Sun , 4 February 2021. The incidents drew strong condemnation from Fulani and several other northern groups, straining ethnic relations. A prominent northern group, the Arewa Consultative Forum, warned that civil war could ensue. See “Southwest/Fulani crisis: Another civil war looms, ACF warns”, Sunday Sun , 24 January 2021. Hide Footnote Recently, rising tension and the risks of wider inter-ethnic, inter-regional violence have revived the urgency of finding durable solutions to the herder-farmer conflict.

Following the wave of violence in the Middle Belt in 2018, the federal government, after consulting with various stakeholders (including state governors, leaders of herders’ and farmers’ associations, and international development partners), formulated a National Livestock Transformation Plan to modernise the livestock sector. Its objectives are to gradually end open grazing and thereby promote peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers. The Plan, which the National Economic Council adopted in January 2019, has been lauded by authorities in northern and some Middle Belt states. [fn] The National Economic Council is a forum representing the federal government, the governments of all the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Hide Footnote Several states have already taken steps toward commencing implementation. But these are only preliminary. The main work, which still lies ahead, will be challenging, requiring focused efforts by federal and state authorities, as well as donors and others, if it is to be successful.

Building on Crisis Group’s 2017 and 2018 reports on herder-farmer violence in Nigeria and a May 2020 report on insecurity in the North West, this report examines the Plan and its limitations, while outlining recommendations for breaking through logjams that are holding up its implementation. It is based on interviews with a range of stakeholders, including federal and state agriculture ministry officials, leaders of herders’ and farmers’ associations, representatives of civil society organisations, local politicians, officials of food and agriculture companies, and officials of international agencies including the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the UN Development Programme. Interviews were conducted in the federal capital, Abuja, and in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states, three of the seven states initially designated as the Plan’s pilot states, between December 2020 and April 2021.

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

II. The National Livestock Transformation Plan

The National Livestock Transformation Plan, one of a string of government initiatives to manage cattle production, is meant to foster greater prosperity through reforms that will make the livestock sector “more productive and sustainable” at the same time that it encourages peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers. [fn] “National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), 2019-2028: Implementation Plan Guidelines for FGN and States”, National Economic Council, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Federal Ministry of Interior, Abuja, n.d. This document guiding the Plan’s implementation followed the first 56-page “National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), 2019-2028: Strategy Document”, January 2019. This report refers to these two documents together as the Plan. Hide Footnote Its chief aims are to curb the movement of cattle by encouraging predominantly nomadic herders to switch to sedentary, more mechanised livestock production and thereby to minimise conflict between them and crop farmers.

At the Plan’s core is an initiative to establish various categories of ranches (large, medium and small) in public grazing reserves and improve services around them including by securing water to irrigate pasture and grow fodder, with support from the government, private investors and foreign donors. Although the Plan focuses on cattle herding, the government expects that it will benefit other livestock producers as well as small-scale farmers, whom it will encourage to grow more crops for use as fodder. The Plan assumes that establishing ranches will reduce competition over land and water, boost production of meat and other protein sources, raise incomes and prevent herder-farmer conflict in the future.

The Plan initially identified seven pilot states to develop ranches in public grazing reserves, namely Adamawa, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Plateau, Taraba and Zamfara. The first guidelines for implementing the Plan projected that each of the then-seven pilot states would designate two pilot sites, with four ranches to be established at each location. In addition to the 56 facilities contemplated by this scheme, the initial pilot states were also expected to establish a total of seven breeder ranches and seven semen banks. [fn] “National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), 2019-2028: Implementation Plan Guidelines for FGN and States”, op. cit. Hide Footnote Then, a meeting of the Northern States Governors Forum in Kaduna city in late 2019 resolved that all the nineteen northern states be considered as front-line states for the Plan’s pilot implementation, a resolution later endorsed by the National Economic Council. The Council urged all other states to join in carrying out the Plan nationwide. By 2028, the Plan envisions that participating states will build a total of at least 119 ranches, creating over two million new jobs, especially along various value-adding chains. [fn] These jobs include positions for plant operators, veterinarians and farm managers, as well as unskilled workers such as farm and feedlot hands. Additional employment is expected in meat processing, factory packaging, transportation and warehouse managing; retail jobs such as in-house butchers at supermarkets and aisle-stocking teams are also envisaged. Hide Footnote

The Plan includes provisions for monitoring and broad priorities. To guide and evaluate progress, it outlines a “Results Framework” outlining specific targets throughout the ten-year timeline, as well as a set of indicators measuring performance. It also identifies five policy areas, or pillars, that require special attention: addressing conflicts; improving access to justice and peace; meeting the needs of those affected by conflict; developing human capital; and attending to cross-cutting issues including gender, youth, research, information and strategic communication. [fn] “National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), 2019-2028: Strategy Document”, op. cit. Hide Footnote It suggests that these pillars – which are more hortatory than operational – are key to creating “a conducive environment for the transformation of the livestock sector that will lead to peaceful coexistence, economic development and food security for the growing population”. [fn] “National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), 2019-2028: Implementation Plan Guidelines for FGN and States” , op. cit. Hide Footnote

For purposes of implementation, the Plan has a tiered administrative structure. The federal government bears overall responsibility and provides most of the funding. At the apex of the federal structure is a National Livestock Transformation Plan Steering Committee, but direct supervision of the Plan falls under a Program Coordination Secretariat based in the Office of the Vice President. [fn] The Steering Committee is responsible for overall program oversight, policy guidance and strategic direction and review, as well as approval of annual workplans and budgets. The Secretariat is responsible for overall program coordination, assisting states with technical support in developing their implementation plans and budgets, monitoring and evaluation, contract management and quality control, and carrying out project-related studies, as well as communication and information. The membership comprises the ministers of agriculture and interior, as well as the governors of ten states – Adamawa, Benue, Ebonyi, Edo, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba and Zamfara. It is chaired by the Ebonyi state governor, David Umahi. Hide Footnote The structure in the states mirrors the federal arrangement. Each participating state is to set up a State Livestock Transformation Office, to be supported by a State Livestock Project Management Office. A State Livestock Transformation Plan Steering Committee bears overall responsibility for meeting objectives at the state level. [fn] The former office is to devise a detailed implementation program for the state, which will include funding sources and flows, along with other technical matters. The latter is to be responsible for key decision-making, including policy, strategic orientation and oversight. Hide Footnote As agreed by the National Economic Council in 2019, the federal government is to fund 80 per cent of any livestock transformation plan submitted by any state government, while state governments and private investors are to provide the remaining 20 per cent. [fn] The National Economic Council adopted this funding arrangement in September 2019. Hide Footnote No state plans have yet been submitted.

As a condition of federal funding, each participating state must establish its State Livestock Transformation Office, provide details of its engagement with herders and farmers, and make a 5 per cent funding commitment to support the Secretariat’s work. [fn] Crisis Group interview, senior official, ministry of agriculture and rural development, Abuja, 19 January 2021. Hide Footnote State governments are then responsible for demarcating land, assigning staff and developing projects.

The new Plan is not Nigeria’s first effort to develop a strategy for defusing herder-farmer resource competition, but it has significant advantages over its predecessors, all of which either failed or were abandoned. [fn] For a summary of Nigerian federal and state government efforts that failed or were abandoned since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999, see Crisis Group Report, Herders against Farmers: Nigeria’s Expanding Deadly Conflict , op. cit., Appendix A. Hide Footnote First, unlike many previous efforts, it is the product of consultations among federal and state governments, herders’ and farmers’ groups, and development partners, and therefore stands a better chance of enlisting support. Secondly, its emphasis on the economic benefits of reform could make it more appealing to herders and farmers. Its five supporting pillars also represent a comprehensive understanding of the enabling environment required for the core reforms to be implemented. Thirdly, it includes a range of livestock production options that offer alternative entry points for various categories of producers and investors in the livestock sector, potentially boosting the sector’s productivity.

That said, for all its breadth, the Plan fails to adequately address two factors that will be key to the sustainability of any livestock management reform. First, it does not take into account the many foreign transhumant migrants who move their herds in and out of Nigeria, as seasons change, and may have little interest in settling on ranches and grazing reserves. About 30 per cent of live animals slaughtered in Nigeria are imported from neighbouring countries. [fn] Crisis Group interview, UN Food and Agriculture Organization official, Abuja, 5 April 2021. Hide Footnote Neither does the Plan explain how authorities are to induce members of this cohort, who move in and out of the country, to stay on ranches and grazing reserves, or whether the government even aims to do so.

Amid widespread concerns about their involvement in herder-farmer conflict and crime in many states, views diverge as to whether the government should keep allowing these pastoralists into Nigeria and, if so, how it should apply the Plan to them. [fn] In 2017, the governors of Nigeria’s northern states, under their umbrella body, the Northern Governors Forum, stated they had observed that most of the herders involved in incidents of insecurity in the country were foreigners, mostly from Senegal and Mali. “Northern governors: herdsmen attacking Nigerians are foreigners”, The Cable , 25 January 2017. Hide Footnote On one end of the opinion spectrum, Kano state’s governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has advised the federal government to ban foreign herders from coming into Nigeria in order to stem rising insecurity. [fn] “Ganduje to FG: Ban foreign herders now”, Daily Trust , 12 February 2021. Hide Footnote Others have argued that foreigners, if they do enter, should not derive benefits from the Plan, given that it is a Nigerian government-funded program. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, federal ministry of agriculture and rural development official, Abuja, 12 December 2020; civil society leader based in Nasarawa state, 4 February 2021. Hide Footnote Bauchi state governor Bala Mohammed (himself a Fulani) has asserted that the Plan will accommodate every Fulani herder in Nigeria, including those who come in from other countries. [fn] “Bauchi gov: NLTP will accommodate Fulani herdsmen from neighbouring countries”, This Day, 17 September 2019. Hide Footnote

Whether or not the transhumant pastoralists are included under the Plan, the Nigerian government will need to arrive at some rules of the road that help ensure they do not undermine its implementation. If foreign pastoralists keep moving their herds about without restrictions, it may be difficult to persuade Nigerian herders to stay on ranches and grazing reserves. [fn] Crisis Group interview, cattle breeders’ association official, Abuja, 2 February 2021. Hide Footnote Moreover, continued roaming of foreign-owned cattle could create more friction with farmers, defeating a key purpose of the Plan.

Secondly, while the Plan acknowledges climate change as contributing to the challenges Nigeria faces, its treatment of this topic reflects serious gaps, which if unaddressed could make it less effective as a means of improving livestock management and reducing herder-farmer tension.

By way of background, Nigeria has been feeling the effects of climate change for a half-century, particularly in the form of extreme heat and drought in the far north. Leading forecasts predict that these trends will intensify over the Plan’s ten-year timeline, and beyond, with a 1.56°C increase in average temperature in Nigeria by 2040, relative to 1995. [fn] Temperature forecasts are based on the World Climate Research Programme’s CORDEX model mean, assuming an intermediate emission scenario (RCP 4.5). Hide Footnote Average annual temperatures rose 0.7°C from 1970 to 2014, while annual precipitation fell 8mm from its peak in 1960 to 2014. Nigeria’s climate varies across regions, with annual total precipitation in 2014 ranging from 2,000mm in the tropical south to 700mm in the arid northern regions, which have borne the brunt of climate change so far. These climatic changes have already put immense pressure on the agricultural sector by reducing the total amount of cropland as well as grassland. After expanding until 2013, the total area of mixed-use land (used for both farming and herding) has shrunk by about 2 per cent between 2013 and 2018. [fn] Crisis Group calculations using CCI-LC time series land use data collected by the European Space Agency. Hide Footnote

On top of the effects of heat and drought, the increasing seasonal variability of rainfall and land productivity is another potentially growing driver of resource competition between herders and farmers. Such variability is especially pronounced in the Middle Belt and northern states, where crops and pasture are highly dependent on rainfall. [fn] The average seasonal variability in rainfall (2014-2019) increases from around 1,200mm in Nigeria’s south to 1,800mm in the north. Seasonal variability is based on the within-year standard deviation and measures the spread of weather extremes within a certain year. Hide Footnote According to climate forecasts, the seasonal variability of rainfall is likely to increase over the Plan’s timeframe, potentially further disrupting traditional rhythms of farming and herding and destabilising livelihoods in these regions. [fn] Based on 2030 forecasting data by the World Resources Institute’s Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas. Hide Footnote While farming and cattle herding can complement each other, with cattle fertilising plots between crop harvests, greater seasonal variability disrupts pastoral migration cycles, upsetting this delicate symbiosis.

As climate change has increased pressure on the resources used by farmers and herders, intercommunal violence in Nigeria has risen over the last decade, with more than 1,000 violent events – clashes, attacks and killings – involving farmers and herders between 2010 and 2019, compared to fewer than 100 between 2000 and 2009. [fn] Crisis Group calculations using Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) conflict event data on battles, riots or violence against civilians. Events are further filtered by a list of keywords associated with farmer-herder disputes using ACLED “notes” variable. A search found that 1,077 violent events fulfil these criteria between 2010 and 2019, while only 83 violent events meet the same criteria between 2000 and 2016. Hide Footnote But while the Plan acknowledges climate change as an important contributor to herder-farmer violence, it falls short in recommending policies that take into account its proven effects.

First, in proposing the construction of new ranches and rehabilitation of grazing reserves, the initiative does not seem to take into account that these facilities’ feasibility over the coming decades will largely depend on the availability of water, which is becoming scarcer as rainfall diminishes. Climate scientists can predict rainfall patterns and water scarcity with increasing accuracy, but the Plan does not require that states take this modelling into account in their proposals.

Secondly, the Plan leans perhaps too heavily on the argument that free-roaming cattle herding is less productive than ranching, making it no longer appropriate in modern times. While it may be true that ranches are more productive, stationary ranching is also less resilient in the face of climate-induced land use changes and erratic weather patterns, given that pastoralists (unlike ranchers) can adjust their movements to make use of seasonally available resources. Estimates say Nigeria’s population will grow from 200 million to about 400 million by 2050. It may be that the country cannot afford to leave these resources untapped, in which case policymakers may need to explore more flexible arrangements in addition to what is in the Plan.

III. Implementation and Challenges

Both the federal and state governments have taken several steps to implement the Plan, from setting up steering committees to providing technical assistance, but their efforts have been uneven and, faced with several challenges, progress has been at best modest. In order to make significant strides, authorities at both levels of government will need to address certain fundamental issues.

A. Implementation to Date

At the federal level, activities kick-starting the Plan began as soon as the National Economic Council gave its imprimatur in January 2019. Shortly afterward, the Council announced that the government would allocate 100 billion nairas (approximately $262 million) for executing the Plan. The Program Coordination Secretariat in the Vice President’s Office, with support from development partners, then developed comprehensive guidelines for federal and state governments. On 10 September 2019, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo launched the first phase of state-level implementation in Adamawa, one of the initial pilot states, in north-eastern Nigeria. [fn] “Osinbajo inaugurates National Livestock Transformation Plan”, The Punch , 10 September 2019. Adamawa may have been chosen as curtain raiser because it has 69 of Nigeria’s 415 grazing reserves, the highest number of any state. Hide Footnote Since then, the Secretariat has been providing technical support to several states to prepare the ground, including assistance with field surveys and project site mapping. It has also organised stakeholder sensitisation forums in these states .

The federal government has sought international expertise to kick-start fulfilment of the Plan in the states. Following a Memorandum of Understanding signed during President Buhari’s visit to the Netherlands in July 2018, the government, in 2019, engaged the Dutch company Cownexxion, first to help in formulating the Plan, and subsequently to work on rolling it out in some states. [fn] “Buhari rounds off visit to Netherlands, expects more foreign investments”, The Punch , 18 July 2018; “Nigeria, Netherlands pledge stronger partnerships on Trade, Investments, Security”, Press Release, State House, The Presidency, Abuja, 26 November 2019. Hide Footnote Cownexxion has developed a Project Appraisal Document that provides specific details of turnkey start-ups in four states – Adamawa, Gombe, Nasarawa and Plateau – including budgets for projects, a manpower training course and the development of a masterplan that will be used in scaling up implementation beyond these four states. [fn] Cownexxion is one of several companies making up an “Impact Cluster” to support implementation of the Plan. The Cluster, which is supported by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, includes the Aeres Group, the Agriterra Dairy Delta Academy, Scherjon Dairy Equipment, Barenbrug South Africa, the Dutch Sustainable Energy Group and the Queens Company. Klaas Struiksma, “Project Appraisal Document: Dutch-Nigeria Bilateral Partnership for NLTP Start-up”, Cownexxion, n.d. Hide Footnote The start-ups, to be implemented from February 2021 to August 2023, involve the establishment of one pilot farm in each state, which is to serve as a training centre for farmers and extension agents focusing on feed production, management and other skills. (Extension agents are persons employed by federal and state ministries of agriculture who dispense practical and scientific advice on crop farming and animal husbandry.)

The federal government has taken other steps to support progress on livestock reform as provided for by the Plan. Notably, on 15 March 2021, the federal ministry of agriculture and rural development launched the National Livestock Breed Improvement Programme to boost the development and transformation of the livestock value chain. This program is expected to improve the genetic makeup of certain indigenous breed animals, especially dairy cattle, in order to achieve increased milk and meat yields from the nation’s herds. The government also expects that the program will, in the words of one senior official, “improve the livelihoods of pastoral communities and other livestock farmers” and help in “addressing other challenges in the livestock value chain, particularly the herders-crop farmers conflict”. [fn] “FG flags off National Livestock Breed Improvement Programme”, Nigerian Tribune , 15 March 2021. Hide Footnote

Support for the Plan among state governments is relatively strong. As of mid-April 2021, 22 of the country’s 36 states had written to the federal government indicating interest in implementing the Plan. President Buhari’s special assistant on agriculture, Andrew Kwasari, said: “Out of these 22 states, many have gone into training and the opening of offices. Some have even located over fifteen grazing reserves, which have been surveyed by certain governors totalling over 200,000 hectares of land”. [fn] Crisis Group interview, Andrew Kwasari, senior special assistant to the president on agriculture, Abuja, 18 April 2021. Hide Footnote

While the states that have already begun Plan-related work are all in the far north or Middle Belt – the main cattle-producing regions – some southern state governments (including Ebonyi, Ondo and Ekiti) have also written to the federal government, formally expressing interest. States’ support for the Plan may be due to several reasons. State governors were very much involved in the National Economic Council’s consultations that gave birth to the Plan. Some state governments recognise that it could be a way to curb violence in their jurisdictions. There is also the extra attraction that the Plan will be largely funded by the federal government.

Most of the seven states that were initially designated as the Plan’s pilots have opened their State Livestock Transformation Offices, one of the conditions for federal government support, and have also set up committees to oversee the Plan’s rollout. Members of these committees include state officials, as well as representatives of pastoralists’ and farmers’ groups, notably the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and the All Farmers Association of Nigeria. These groups do not represent all herders and farmers across the country, but they do provide platforms from which information about the Plan can be communicated to many herders and farmers in rural areas. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, agriculture ministry officials in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states, December 2020-January 2021. Hide Footnote

Some state governments have held awareness and sensitisation programs for herders and farmers, explaining details about the Plan and its potential benefits to both occupational groups. Some have organised workshops for government officials, especially in agriculture ministries, and have done other outreach as well. In Adamawa state, for example, the government has funded campaigns on state radio and television; officials say they have also met with herders, farmers, civil society organisations, traditional rulers and community leaders to discuss the Plan. [fn] Crisis Group interview, permanent secretary, agriculture ministry, Adamawa state, Yola, 15 December 2020. Hide Footnote

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

Following the completion of field surveys (including soil and water tests), some state governments have demarcated the sites they intend to use as grazing reserves. In Adamawa state, the government has designated the Gongoshi, Guyaku, Nassarawo-Jada, Dauchi and Saurata reserves as sites for projects under the Plan. [fn] Ibid. Hide Footnote In Plateau state, the government has designated the Wase and Garga grazing reserves as areas where herders and their livestock can settle. [fn] Crisis Group interview, agriculture ministry official, Jos, Plateau state, 12 December 2020. Hide Footnote In Nasarawa, where the government was already preparing to demarcate or reactivate its grazing reserves before the Plan’s launch, it is now making them available for use under the Plan. [fn] Sites designated for the Plan are spread across seven local government areas, namely Awe, Keana, Doma, Mankwar, Konva, Gitata, Kurudu and Loko. Hide Footnote In Niger state, the government has tagged the Bobi Grazing Reserve, which covers 31,000 hectares, as the centre of its ranching sites. In Gombe state, the focus is on the vast Wawa Zange Grazing Reserve (141,000 hectares), which the government believes can accommodate over two million cattle. [fn] The reserve cuts across four local government areas, namely Dulku, Funakaye, Nafada and Kwami. Hide Footnote

Several state governments are partnering with private investors – strengthening existing partnerships or forging new ones – to support the Plan. In November 2019, Niger state signed a memorandum of understanding with the Dutch dairy company FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria, allocating 10,000 hectares of land at the Bobi Grazing Reserve for milk production. [fn] The memorandum was signed in Abuja by the governor of Niger State, Abubakar Bello, and the president of FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy, Roel van Neerbos, on 19 November 2019. A company statement said the partnership would boost dairy production at the reserve and offer training for Nigerian dairy cooperatives in the state. It said the company had already established key infrastructure in the reserve, including “a milk collection centre with a high-capacity cooling tank and high-quality milk testing equipment”. “Milk production: Niger, FrieslandCampina sign MoU”, The Punch , 27 November 2019. “Nigeria, Netherlands pledge stronger partnerships on Trade, Investments, Security”, press release, The Presidency, 26 November 2019. Five private companies – national and international – are engaged at the Bobi Grazing Reserve. Crisis Group interview, Niger state agriculture ministry official, Abuja, 29 January 2021. Hide Footnote In February 2020, the Plateau state government signed a similar deal enabling two private companies – Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition and Integrated Dairies – to use grazing reserves. [fn] “Plateau commences implementation of livestock transformation programme”, Daily Trust , 21 February 2020. Full details of the agreements are not public, but these companies are expected to invest in equipment to boost development of the livestock value chain, particularly dairy, meat and foliage production. Integrated Dairies is a Nigerian dairy farm that has produced milk since 2003, under the brand Farmfresh, from its exotic Friesian breed of cattle. Located in the Vom highlands in Jos, Plateau state, its farmlands span over 550 hectares. A team from the Dutch dairy consultancy Cownexxion, led by Klaus Struilesma, had already indicated interest in ranching in Plateau state before the Plan’s adoption. See “Cownexxion to build cattle ranches in Nigeria”, National Insight , 17 July 2018. Hide Footnote Some states are also contemplating incentives that they hope would attract prospective investors to build ranches, including tax waivers and provision of security escorts for their staff and to guard project sites. [fn] Crisis Group interview, agriculture ministry official, Jos, Plateau state, 10 December 2020. Hide Footnote

While most participating state governments say they have already complied with the conditions for obtaining federal government funding, these claims are disputed. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, civil society leaders, Yola (Adamawa state), Lafia (Nasarawa state) and Jos (Plateau state), 1-20 December 2020. Crisis Group telephone interview, Kor Aondona David, president, Benue Agro Youth Initiative, 10 April 2021. Hide Footnote In some of the states visited by Crisis Group, observers said the state governments are merely trying to shore up their budgets by doing what they need to qualify for the funding committed by the National Economic Council, but showing little commitment to carrying out the Plan. Notwithstanding the positive examples noted above, they pointed to a lack of information being shared with investors and the paucity of training programs and capacity building for ranch and grazing reserves management. [fn] Crisis Group interview, civil society leaders from Plateau and Kogi, Abuja, 2 December 2020. Hide Footnote

B. Implementation Challenges

Politics put off action on many aspects of the Plan following its formal adoption in January 2019. Given that Nigeria held general elections in the following month, commencement of most implementation activities, especially at the state level, was delayed through the peak of the election campaigns, voting, the post-election inauguration of new governments and the constitution of federal and state cabinets. [fn] President Buhari swore in and gave portfolios to his 43 new ministers on 21 August 2019. See “Buhari swears in ministers”, Premium Times , 21 August 2019. Some state governors did not appoint commissioners, including for agriculture, until much later in the year.  Hide Footnote Thus, it was only in the fourth quarter of 2019 that state-level activities began. Moreover, even as it overcame those initial delays, the Plan has been confronted with several other challenges.

1. An enthusiasm and communications gap

Notwithstanding the support of some state governments, the Plan lacks broad political buy-in. Ethnic groups in the southern and Middle Belt states remain wary of the initiative, which they view as favouring Fulani herders over other ethnic and occupational groups. These groups oppose establishing ranches or even public grazing reserves for herders, arguing that pastoralists would get favourable treatment in the form of free use of state resources while others have had to buy or lease land in order to start a business. [fn] “NLTP is RUGA in disguise – SMBLF”, The Punch , 27 September 2019. Hide Footnote This argument often overlooks the fact that farmers and other occupational groups have also benefited disproportionately from credit schemes (such as the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programme) as well as COVID-19 relief packages, which did not include or benefit herders. [fn] The Anchor Borrowers’ Programme was launched by the Central Bank of Nigeria in November 2015. According to the Bank, its thrust is “provision of farm inputs in kind and cash (for farm labour) to small holder farmers to boost production of commodities, stabilize inputs supply to agro-processors and address the country’s negative balance of payments on food”. “Anchor Borrowers’ Programme Guidelines”, Central Bank of Nigeria, December 2016. Hide Footnote It also fails to recognise that the Plan also opens up investment and business opportunities, not only for the predominantly Fulani pastoralists but to a wide range of private investors.

One line of criticism dismisses the Plan as a mere rebranding of previous agricultural policies, including a January 2018 proposal to establish “cattle colonies” and a May 2019 plan to set aside land for herders in settlements, known as Rural Grazing Areas (RUGA), across the country. These policies were not preceded by necessary multi-stakeholder consultations. The RUGA scheme was popular among some herders’ groups in the north and eleven northern states donated 55,000 hectares of land for its implementation. But it was vehemently opposed by groups in the south and Middle Belt, who viewed it as a “land grab” for herders. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo distanced himself from the scheme, saying it was neither provided for nor aligned with the livestock transformation plan, and President Buhari eventually suspended it. [fn] On the proposal to establish cattle colonies and the controversies that followed, see Crisis Group Report, Stopping Nigeria’s Spiralling Farmer-Herder Violence, op. cit., pp. 23-25. In 2019, the ministry of agriculture proposed to establish RUGA settlements across the country. Several state governments in the south and Middle Belt openly criticised the RUGA project, especially because their governors had not approved it. President Buhari eventually suspended the project. “Osinbajo distances self from Ruga settlement”, The Guardian , 29 June 2019; “Buhari suspends Ruga programme – official”, Premium Times , 3 July 2019. Hide Footnote

Criticism of, and opposition to, the Plan reflect suspicions that many southern and Middle Belt Nigerians harbour about President Buhari himself. They are born of a widely held belief among Nigerians from these parts that Buhari, a Fulani, favours herder interests over those of other citizens. These misgivings have tended to cloud recognition of the Plan’s potential to benefit many non-Fulani communities, including by creating new markets for fodder to feed livestock on ranches and also grazing reserves during the dry season.

Pastoralists also raise understandable concerns. Leaders of some herders’ groups believe that the Plan focuses too narrowly on economic measures and benefits, neglecting the impact of comprehensive livestock reform on centuries-old pastoralist culture. [fn] Crisis Group interview, local herders’ group leader, Abuja, 21 January 2021. Hide Footnote They argue that a ten-year timeframe to move from open grazing to ranching is too short for the far-reaching cultural and social changes the reforms will require of herders. [fn] At the Plan’s formative stages in 2018, the national secretary of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore herders’ group, Saleh Alhassan, said: “If we want to completely transform from open grazing to highly mechanised form of livestock production, which is ranching, we need a period of not less than 25 years”. Saturday Punch , 7 July 2018. Hide Footnote Some say an end to open grazing is acceptable in principle but impracticable until the government designates alternative locations – ranches and grazing reserves – where they can concentrate their herds. [fn] “Govt can’t ban open grazing, says Miyetti Allah”, The Punch , 7 March 2021. Hide Footnote Other herders have misgivings about the idea of concentrating cattle in ranches and reserves, fearing a possible shortage of pasture, which is a legitimate worry, particularly given changing weather patterns. [fn] Experience fuels their concerns: in the 1970s, governments in the former Gongola state (now Adamawa and Taraba) as well as in Kaduna and Plateau states tried to concentrate herders in reserves. The strategy collapsed when the herders could not find enough fodder for their cattle in degraded reserves. Tolulope Ogboru and Oluwatoyin Adejonwo-Osho, “Towards an Effective Cattle Grazing and Rearing Legal Framework: An Imperative for Environmental Protection”, Journal of Sustainable Development, Law and Policy , vol. 9, no. 1 (2018). Authorities will have to convince herders that the reserves earmarked for ranching contain enough grazing land. Hide Footnote Furthermore, some herders worry that gathering in such concentrations, if the sites are not well guarded, could make them targets for cattle rustlers. [fn] Crisis Group interview, CORET pastoralists’ organisation official, Abuja, 18 April 2021. Hide Footnote For now, authorities say movement to the reserves and ranches will be voluntary and not compulsory. Moreover, while many state governments have declared they have banned or are banning open grazing, they lack capacity to enforce the bans. [fn] See “South-West governors ban open grazing after meeting with Miyetti Allah”, Daily Post , 25 January 2021; “South-East governors ban open grazing, want criminals flushed out of forests”, Vanguard, 2 February 2021; and “Insecurity: Northern governors seek end to open grazing”, Vanguard , 9 February 2021. Hide Footnote

At least some of the herders’ misgivings might be allayed through a greater appreciation of what the Plan has to offer. As noted, the Program Coordination Secretariat and some state governments have taken some steps to publicise the Plan, but awareness of its benefits remains low. Although the Secretariat and several state governments have conducted workshops to explain the reforms to some herder and farmer leaders and the general public, many traditional and other community leaders in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states told Crisis Group that they had little or no information about the Plan. Some said they had heard of it but had no idea how state governments planned to involve them in rallying support; some said they were neither notified of, nor involved in, the above-referenced forums that were convened to raise awareness about the Plan. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, traditional rulers, civil society leaders and other stakeholders in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states, December 2020. Hide Footnote Others said they were hearing of the Plan only on national television, and not at the state or local level, adding that their state governments had not organised workshops for stakeholders or consulted with locals to build support, perhaps for resource or capacity reasons. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, stakeholders in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states, December 2020. Some officials suggested that the lack of resources and capacity at state agriculture ministries could be hamstringing outreach efforts. Crisis Group interview, federal ministry of agriculture and rural development official, Abuja, 16 March 2021. Hide Footnote

2. Wavering political leadership and bureaucratic inertia

The Plan has also been weighed down by a lack of political drive, an erosion of public confidence and bureaucratic challenges. President Buhari himself has hardly spoken out to rally support for the Plan. Officials of his government and his party – the All Progressives Congress – have likewise not promoted it; instead, they have sometimes suggested alternatives. For instance, in February 2021, the federal justice minister, Abubakar Malami, advocated the establishment of a “commission for pastoralism regulated by law” that “might provide recipes for resolving protracted farmer-herder conflicts”. [fn] “Malami advocates pastoral commission to end herdsmen’s crisis”, This Day , 17 February 2021. Hide Footnote On 13 March, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the national leader of Buhari’s party, recommended that the federal government convene all those affected by herder-farmer conflict “to hammer out a set of working principles to resolve the crisis”, but made no mention of the Plan, which was designed to achieve precisely that goal. [fn] “How to resolve farmer-herder crisis, by Tinubu”, The Nation , 13 March 2021. Hide Footnote While declaring support for the Plan, some state governors advance their own reform ideas that are not aligned with it. These diversions suggest a dearth of political commitment to the Plan.

Support for the Plan was particularly buffeted by the May 2019 plan to create RUGA settlements for herders. Though suspended following strong opposition from the Middle Belt and the southern states, that initiative and the controversy it generated subsequently jeopardised confidence in the Plan. Though the Plan was adopted in January 2019, five months before that RUGA controversy, many, including journalists from both mainstream media houses and independent blogs, continually disparage it as a repackaged RUGA program. [fn] See, for example, “National livestock plan is RUGA in disguise, Nigerians warn”, The Guardian , 16 September 2019; and “National Livestock Transformation is RUGA repackaged, says Biafra Nations Youth League, vows never to accept it”, The Awareness , 9 July 2019. Hide Footnote

Inertia in the ministry of agriculture is also apparently a problem. The minister has constituted a committee to coordinate implementation activities with state governments and the National Economic Council, but there seems to be little or no enthusiasm for the Plan within the ministry. The Plan was not originally “a child of the ministry”, said one official by way of explanation. This source also noted that the officials who introduced the RUGA initiative are still unhappy that the president shot it down. [fn] Crisis Group interview, agriculture and rural development ministry official, Abuja, 18 April 2021. Hide Footnote Whatever the case, as of yet there is no sense of urgency among the ministry’s staff for progress on the Plan.

3. COVID-19 and funding

The COVID-19 pandemic has delayed the Plan’s rollout in some states and forced budget cuts at both the federal and state levels of government. Countrywide movement restrictions, social distancing measures and stay-at-home orders for junior and middle-level civil servants, along with other measures to curb the outbreak, have slowed or stalled several Plan-related projects.

At the same time, funding shortfalls are potentially significant. As noted, in 2019, the National Economic Council announced it had proposed that 100 billion nairas (about $262 million) would be required to carry out the Plan. [fn] “Nigeria to spend N100 billion on new plan for cattle, other animals”, Premium Times , 19 September 2019. Hide Footnote Amid concerns that this amount falls short of what authorities would need for such an ambitious Plan, the Project Steering Committee in Abuja has clarified that the government’s funding will focus largely on boosting primary production of livestock while private sector investors and development partners are expected to provide funds for value chain development. Even so, as of mid-April 2021, no federal funds had been approved or released to states, to implement projects to improve production. [fn] Crisis Group interview, senior official of the Project Steering Committee, Abuja, 18 April 2021. Hide Footnote

Plan documents cited by Crisis Group show that, for projects scheduled for implementation in 2021, the Plan requires about €1.6 million and 8.4 billion naira in federal investment. But the twin impact of COVID-19 and falling oil prices, which plunged the economy into recession in 2020, have already taken a toll on the federal government’s revenues. [fn] “FG admits revenues crashing, Nigeria faces hard times”, The Punch , 20 April 2021. Hide Footnote As of mid-April 2021, the federal government had not released any funds to states to commence projects. For instance, in Nasarawa state, for which the Dutch Investment Agency had approved a €400,000 grant to cover 50 per cent of the cost for a pilot project scheduled to start in February 2021, non-release of the federal government’s matching 50 per cent has delayed commencement of activities. [fn] Crisis Group interview, agriculture and rural development ministry official, Abuja, 18 April 2021. Hide Footnote

State governments are also financially challenged. The pandemic has shrunken allocations from the federation account, cut funds internally generated from taxes by 40 per cent in 2020, drained already limited resources, and thus constrained their ability to build ranches, resuscitate grazing reserves or commence urgently needed capacity building. [fn] “COVID-19: States’ tax revenue fell by 40 percent in 2020 – govs”, New Telegraph , 20 April 2021. Hide Footnote It is not clear how much the states have allocated to the Plan in their 2021 budgets, but several state officials told Crisis Group that they lack the money to carry out major projects in 2021. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, senior agriculture ministry officials, Plateau and Adamawa states, Abuja, December 2020. In Nigeria, the federation account refers to the pool of all federally collected revenue, which is shared monthly between the federal government (48.5 per cent), all 36 state governments (24 per cent), the 774 local governments (20 per cent) and special funds (7.5 per cent). For recent reports of financial distress in states, see “States face cash crunch, salaries swallow revenues, Federal Govt seeks more funds”, The Punch , 15 April 2021; and “Tough hurdles for states seeking pension fund loans”, The Guardian , 3 January 2021. Hide Footnote It is also not clear how the state governments intend to overcome the funding challenge: some officials say they may have to rely largely on federal funds, to the extent they are available. There is clearly a need for significant donor support.

4. Land acquisition

Another challenge relates to the acquisition of land for project sites, which has, in some locations, run into opposition, mainly from farmers, who fear being displaced by herders and their cattle. In some areas, parts of long-designated grazing reserves have, over the years, been occupied by crop farmers, who are now reluctant to leave such lands to livestock producers. For instance, in December 2020, members of the Garga Emirate Council in Plateau state said they opposed using the Garga reserve for livestock projects because it includes their farmland. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, 17 December 2020. According to them, the late emir (Muslim traditional ruler) had told state government officials to relocate the livestock project from Garga grazing reserve to parts of the Pia River Game Reserve, which was largely free of human activity. Hide Footnote In other areas, farmers object to letting herders settle permanently on the reserves, arguing that such settlements could aggravate pre-existing local tension between them and Fulani herders. This objection runs contrary to one of the core objectives of the Plan – which is to sedentarise livestock production in order to reduce the friction associated with roaming and also boost productivity – and needs to be actively engaged by Plan proponents.

If farmers are dispossessed, especially without proper compensation, they could become hostile to the entire project and the well-meaning reforms could inadvertently stoke – rather than dispel – animosity between the two groups. Governments, in consultation with local leaders, need to accommodate the interests of both herders and farmers, including by enabling farmers to shift to producing fodder that would be needed in the ranches, and even in the grazing reserves during the dry season, in order to promote peaceful coexistence between the two groups and avert more violence.

5. Insufficient technical expertise

A dearth of technical skills is yet another obstacle. Both the federal and state governments’ agriculture ministries lack the manpower and expertise to execute the Plan. Few states have staff capable of managing ranches and grazing reserves, or other professionals like veterinarians, who can look after large cattle herds. The country’s pool of agricultural extension agents had diminished over the years mainly due to buck passing between federal and state governments in terms of responsibility for training programs, diminished funding, agricultural policy changes and lack of interest by young people in taking up such careers in the public sector. [fn] Crisis Group interview, senior official at Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Abuja, 2 April 2021. Hide Footnote Countrywide, there is only one extension agent for every 10,000 farmers, far below the minimum ratio of 1:1,000 recommended by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. [fn] Crisis Group interview, senior official at Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Abuja, 25 January 2021. See also “Dearth of extension agents hampering diversification”, The Guardian , 17 January 2021. Hide Footnote The ratio is even lower in the livestock sector.

In many states that have adopted the Plan, governments have yet to organise workshops for agriculture ministry staff to familiarise them with the Plan or to sponsor staff training at agricultural institutions. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, civil servants and civil society organisations, Nasarawa state, December 2020. Hide Footnote There is as yet no indication of expanding programs and increasing intakes at the country’s three universities of agriculture, agriculture faculties at other universities or associated livestock training and research institutes. Without such expertise, managing ranches and grazing reserves, and more broadly reforming livestock production, will be impossible.

6. Growing insecurity

Insecurity may further delay the Plan’s implementation. Nigeria’s North East, especially Borno state, but also parts of Adamawa and Yobe states, are continually under siege by two jihadist factions, the Islamic State in West Africa Province and Jamaat Ahl al-Sunna li-Dawa wal-Jihad, collectively referred to as Boko Haram. [fn] See Crisis Group Africa Report N°273, Facing the Challenge of the Islamic State in West Africa Province , 16 May 2019. Hide Footnote In many other states across the North West and North Central zones, the presence of armed groups, whom authorities and the media loosely refer to as “bandits”, has left residents and travellers vulnerable to robbery and kidnapping for ransom, especially on roads, on farms and, more recently, in schools. [fn] See Crisis Group Report, Violence in Nigeria’s North West: Rolling Back the Mayhem , op. cit.; and Nnmadi Obasi, “Halting Repeated School Kidnappings in Nigeria”, Crisis Group Commentary, 5 March 2021. Hide Footnote Elsewhere, intra and inter-communal conflicts pose security risks. Across most of the north, insecurity has curtailed access to lands and grazing reserves, hampering the movements of state agriculture ministry staff charged with carrying out the Plan. [fn] Crisis Group interview, senior official at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Abuja, 30 January 2021. Hide Footnote

Several designated project sites face specific threats. On 6 January 2021, the Niger state governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, said: “Most of the bandits have started focusing their attention on the Bobi Grazing Reserve”, the Plan’s focal point in the state. [fn] “Governor: bandits in North recruited from Mali, Sudan”, The Nation , 7 January 2021. Hide Footnote In Nasarawa state, the governor has repeatedly drawn attention to the presence of armed gangs in parts of the grazing reserves earmarked for ranches and other projects under the Plan; the road to one proposed ranch, located in Toto local government area, is considered particularly unsafe “due to the high rate of kidnapping”. [fn] Crisis Group interview, conflict researcher from Nasarawa state, Abuja, 19 January 2021. Hide Footnote The presence and activities of armed criminal gangs are scaring away private investors and may hinder development of public infrastructure in areas where ranches are supposed to be built or where grazing reserves are being rehabilitated. [fn] Crisis Group interview, dairy production company manager, Abuja, 31 January 2021. Hide Footnote Until security improves, livestock producers and herders are likely to avoid these areas. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, communal and civil society leaders, Lafia, Nasarawa state, December 2020. Hide Footnote

7. Concerns about sustainability

Beyond the immediate challenges of implementation, there are also longer-term concerns about the Plan’s sustainability after the elections and changes in government, particularly the presidency, coming up in 2023. In Nigeria, new governments often terminate projects that their predecessors initiated, especially where such projects lack legal footing or have no impressive results to show. Even where projects are not terminated, they are sometimes deprioritised, under-funded and eventually consigned to dormancy. Given that President Buhari and many state governments will be ineligible to run for re-election – meaning that change is certain – there are concerns that unless the Plan is given a proper legal basis and delivers credible results, it could be abandoned or starved of support by the next administration.

IV. Stepping Up the Plan

Governments at the federal and state levels, working with donors and investors, need to act with some urgency to shore up support and funding for the Plan and ensure that states can carry it through over the next eight years. Priorities should include improving public communication and awareness, ensuring proper funding and accountability, building technical expertise, and improving security in and around the reserves where ranches are to be built. The Plan’s proponents should focus their efforts toward showing visible results between now and the commencement of campaigns for the 2023 elections. At the least, by then they should be able to point to some newly constructed ranches or rehabilitated reserves, strong donor and investor commitments, and the first batch of newly trained livestock management professionals and extension agents.

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

A. Provide Stronger Political Leadership

Federal and state authorities should demonstrate stronger political commitment and better leadership in rallying support for the Plan and driving its implementation. President Buhari and his ministers should seize every opportunity to speak out, particularly drawing attention to the Plan’s potential benefits to herders, farmers and the overall national economy. The president might need to convene a cabinet-level retreat, at which he and his aides would properly brief all ministers and other relevant senior officials about the Plan and the strategies for meeting its goals. These officials should subsequently stay focused on promoting the Plan and stop suggesting alternatives that tend to dilute support.

Leaders of various ethnic, regional, religious and other pressure groups sometimes enjoy considerable legitimacy among their supporters. In seeking to boost support for the Plan, therefore, federal and state governments should seek to bring leaders of the most prominent groups on board, prevail on them to eschew hostile rhetoric and enlist their voices in support. Concerted messaging on the Plan, by both government officials and leaders of these diverse groups, would go a long way toward broadening and strengthening citizen support for accelerating and sustaining implementation.

B. Improve Public Communication

The federal and state governments need to improve public communication and increase buy-in from stakeholders. A Plan based on making far-reaching changes to livestock management practices – some of which are deeply entrenched in pastoralist culture – needs to be supported by a persuasive campaign explaining how the new livestock production system is designed to work. This campaign should lay particular emphasis on how the Plan’s potential benefits would outweigh losses to particular groups and individuals and how these losses may be compensated. In particular, authorities should marshal clear, convincing evidence of the benefits to pastoralists who will be asked to limit their movements to grazing reserves; livestock owners who must now buy fodder to feed their cattle; and farmers who may have to stop cultivating areas earmarked as grazing reserves or shift to producing fodder and other feeds for cattle.

At the federal level, the Program Coordination Secretariat in the Office of the Vice President and the ministerial implementation committee in the federal ministry of agriculture should distribute the Plan more widely, including to major civil society organisations, influential newspaper columnists and popular radio/television talk show personalities, all of whom can boost public awareness. They should also exploit online platforms and social media tools in disseminating information about the Plan’s provisions as well as progress on its implementation. The government should task the National Orientation Agency, the federal body mandated with raising public awareness about government policies, to mount a nationwide campaign aimed at boosting public knowledge about the Plan and softening opposition. [fn] The National Orientation Agency is a federal government agency, established by Decree 100 of 1993, with a mandate to “consistently raise awareness, positively change attitudes, values and behaviors; accurately and adequately inform, and sufficiently mobilize citizens to act in ways that promote peace and harmony”. It has offices in all 774 local government areas across the country, with over 5,000 staff, but is severely under-funded and lacks operational equipment. See “Grounded vehicles, dilapidated buildings dot offices of ‘voiceless’ NOA”, Daily Trust, 7 February 2021. Hide Footnote

State governments also need to better publicise the Plan, as well as its opportunities for investors and updates on its progress. [fn] Crisis Group interview, Very Rev. Fr Alfred Azige, cathedral administrator, Catholic diocese of Lafia, December 2020. Hide Footnote They should engage with mass media and civil society organisations to explain the Plan, generate debate about its potential benefits and solicit support. They should also organise more sensitisation programs for both herders and farmers, taking such programs from state capitals to rural areas. Given the present widescale ignorance about the Plan’s potential benefits, such programs should include demonstration events for innovations that it seeks to promote, showcasing new animal husbandry methods to pastoralists and new fodder production systems to farmers in order to persuade the two groups to adopt them.

C. Ensure Funding and Accountability

Federal and state governments must also make deliberate efforts to address funding shortfalls. They should seek loans or grants from donors such as the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the International Development Agency. As the federal government has already indicated that its funding would be focused on boosting primary production, state governments should step up engagement with foreign investors and international development partners to scale up the expansion of value chains in such areas as dairy production, meat processing and logistics.

Foreign donors and international development agencies should offer greater financial and technical support to help Nigeria implement the Plan. There are already various indications of support. A five-member Dutch consortium, the Holland Dairy House Group, is already engaged in start-up projects in four states. The Brazil-Nigeria Green Imperative, a four-member Brazilian consortium, is offering Nigeria an investment package of over $1 billion, mainly for construction of power plants, training structures and agro-processing factories, that would help scale up agricultural reforms over a ten-year period. [fn] The consortium comprises Getúlio Vargas Foundation (Brazil), the Brazilian Machinery Manufacturers Association, Deutsche Bank and the Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development. Hide Footnote The UN Food and Agriculture Organization, which supported the Plan’s formulation, is also providing guidance on implementation to the federal government and several state governments. Donors and development agencies should sustain these engagements, supporting not only governments but also other actors, especially local and international civil society groups that are involved in strengthening the “supporting pillars” of the Plan.

An important condition for attracting donor funding is the guarantee of accountability. Over the years, fraud has crippled too many well-meaning agricultural projects, some of which had already received substantial donor support. [fn] On 27 February 2021, the Benue state governor, Samuel Ortom, called on the federal government to probe the contracts that were quickly awarded for establishment of Rural Grazing Areas in some states, after the RUGA scheme was announced – and then suspended – in 2019. He said the government should recover the funds paid out for execution of those contracts and use them for the National Livestock Transformation Plan. “Ortom demands probe into failed RUGA contracts”, The Nation , 27 February 2021. Hide Footnote To guard against the Plan suffering the same fate, the Program Coordinating Secretariat should prioritise and promote measures that can help ensure that participating states spend donor funds accountably. Independently, state government should establish tight financial controls to prevent misuse of funds. Donors should insist that states show arrangements for ensuring prudence and accountability, as a condition for access to funds pledged for projects under the Plan. One way of doing this might be through arrangements whereby the donor funds would be held in accounts to which donors are joint signatories with state authorities and both parties also agree on arrangements for joint monitoring and evaluation of the funded projects.

D. Build Technical Capacity

The federal and state governments should also step up efforts to build capacity for executing the Plan. A key priority should be to redefine the roles and responsibilities of both levels of government in agricultural extension services and to revitalise these services in all states. The National Assembly has an Agricultural Extension Services Bill under consideration; lawmakers should expedite its approval in order to ensure a stronger legal and funding framework for expansion of training countrywide.

Governments should also commence staff training to deliver better extension services in the livestock sector. The federal government is taking some steps: in January 2021, the minister of agriculture and rural development, Mohammad Sabo Nanono, said the government was already designing protocols for training between 75,000 and 110,000 extension agents; in March, the ministry started training 1,110 agriculture extension agents across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. [fn] “Dearth of extension agents hampering diversification”, op. cit.; “FG begins training of 1,110 agric extension workers”, The Punch , 9 March 2021. Hide Footnote These steps are welcome but, given the scale and urgency of the needs, such training programs need to be scaled up and accelerated.

State governments should seek staff training opportunities with countries that have well-developed ranching and livestock management programs, such as the Netherlands, Australia and Brazil, through their diplomatic missions in Abuja. They could also partner with private companies that already run successful cattle ranches in Nigeria, such as Shonga Farms Holding Nigeria in Kwara state, Sebore Farms in Adamawa state, Nagari Integrated Dairy Farm in Nasarawa state, Maizube Farms in Niger state and Zaidi Farms in Kaduna state.

As the Plan progresses, the federal government should also devote greater attention to equipping pastoralists’ children for jobs in the livestock value chain – including production, processing and marketing. The federal government should expand the mandate of the National Commission for Nomadic Education and correspondingly provide more funding to ensure that it delivers on its mandate of providing educational services for herders’ children. [fn] The National Commission for Nomadic Education is a federal agency established in 1989. Its mandate is to provide functional and relevant education to members of nomadic groups (including pastoralists and artisanal migrant fishermen) that would facilitate their integration into the nation’s largely sedentary, mainstream economy, and also improve their livelihood skills, levels of income and productivity, ultimately equipping them to compete favourably in the nation's socio-economic and political affairs. Hide Footnote

E. Improve Security

The federal government must make a more vigorous effort to stem the deepening insecurity in many states. Military and police operations against armed groups should remain a key priority, including measures to reduce the movement of the large number of illicit firearms in circulation and use across the country. [fn] Estimates of the number of illegal arms in Nigeria vary from six million to 30 million. See “Report on Small Arms, Mass Atrocities and Migration in Nigeria”, SBM Intel, April 2020; and “30 million arms/weapons in wrong hands in Nigeria – ex-Army chief”, Vanguard , 3 January 2021. Hide Footnote Security agencies should forge closer partnerships with community leaders, organising joint patrols on roads that connect settlements in the grazing reserves. They should also work more closely with traditional rulers, village and district heads, and pastoralists’ leaders, as well as women and youth groups, to generate and share intelligence about security-related developments around the ranches and grazing reserves. [fn] Crisis Group interviews, communal and civil society leaders in Adamawa, Nasarawa and Plateau states, December 2020-January 2021. Hide Footnote

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, under the interior ministry, should also expand training and deployment of its Agro-Rangers Squads around the grazing reserves and proposed ranches. In September 2019, the Corps inaugurated a special Agro-Rangers Squad in Adamawa state, whose members had learned weapons-handling skills necessary to protect grazing reserves. [fn] “Civil Defence inaugurates squad to curb herders/farmers clashes”, The Nation, 13 September 2019. Hide Footnote It should replicate this endeavour in all the states that are carrying out livestock transformation projects.

As previous Crisis Group reports have detailed, and as the Plan itself recognises, security operations will not be enough to protect communities and provide an enabling environment for implementing livestock sector reform projects. [fn] For Crisis Group’s major reports on conflicts and insecurity in northern Nigeria since 2014, see Crisis Group Africa Report N°216, Curbing Violence in Nigeria (II): The Boko Haram Insurgency , 3 April 2014; Crisis Group Report, Herders against Farmers: Nigeria’s Expanding Deadly Conflict , op. cit.; Crisis Group Report, Stopping Nigeria’s Spiralling Farmer-Herder Violence, op. cit.; and Crisis Group Report, Violence in Nigeria’s North West: Rolling Back the Mayhem , op. cit. Hide Footnote Such operations must be accompanied by action on the supporting pillars of the Plan, including establishing effective mechanisms for inclusive and sustained dialogue, especially between herders and farmers; improving the administration of justice to sanction perpetrators of violence, compensate victims and curb impunity; supporting the voluntary and safe return of persons and communities displaced by violence; and providing displaced persons with early recovery and livelihood support as they return to their home settlements. These tasks and responsibilities require engagement by various agencies of the federal and state governments, firmly coordinated by relevant agencies under the presidency.

F. Establish Structures for Sustainability

Beyond addressing existing challenges, a further priority must be to insulate the Plan from the vagaries of changing administrations and sustain implementation throughout its projected ten-year timeframe. The Plan must have a firm legal and institutional basis. The Senate is deliberating on a bill that seeks to establish a national livestock bureau, but this measure is inadequate, as the proposed bureau’s mandate is limited to registering cattle, so as to be able to trace them, as well as preventing rustling and controlling livestock disease. [fn] “Senate moves to create database for livestock”, Premium Times , 21 April 2021. Hide Footnote What is needed is legislation establishing an agency for comprehensive livestock sector transformation along the lines laid out in the Plan. The presidency or the leaders of the National Assembly (federal parliament) should act with urgency to sponsor a bill for this purpose, which should include a mandatory funding formula. Once this process is initiated, the National Assembly leaders should expedite deliberations to ensure the bill is passed for Buhari to sign into law before the legislators disperse to their constituencies to campaign for the 2023 elections.

State-level implementation arrangements also need to be secured by clear legal frameworks. In Plateau state, the governor has sent a bill to the state parliament seeking to establish a Plateau State Livestock Transformation Program, thereby giving the Plan legal backing in the state. [fn] “Lalong sends livestock transformation bill to Plateau assembly”, The Punch , 3 March 2021. Hide Footnote Other state governments should do the same.

G. Address Transhumant Pastoralism and Climate Change

As noted earlier, the Plan does not address two issues crucial to successful livestock sector reform: transhumance between Nigeria and its neighbours and the impact of climate change.

The federal government needs to start reviewing existing legislation and other regulations for the management of international transhumant herders, as northern leaders including Sokoto state Governor Aminu Tambuwal have urged. [fn] See, for instance, “Tambuwal: ECOWAS protocol must be reviewed to check influx of foreign herders into Nigeria”, The Cable , 7 March 2021. Hide Footnote Particularly important is the 1998 Protocol on Transhumance promulgated by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to which Nigeria is a signatory, and which provides for international movements of pastoralists within the region. To that end, Abuja, which is the largest contributor to the West African sub-regional organisation, should engage with the ECOWAS commission, as well as the governments of Cameroon and Chad, to reach new agreements on how to better monitor and regulate international transhumant pastoralism.

In the short term, all countries concerned should work out agreements requiring that transhumant pastoralists be properly documented on entry into countries and that they proceed, through recognised stock routes, to specific reserves that have sufficient grazing resources to accommodate them, possibly within a limited distance from the international boundary. Such new arrangements should be incorporated into the Plan. In the longer term, the Nigerian government and its ECOWAS counterparts should review the existing Transhumance Protocol in light of the fact that the conditions under which it was drafted have changed considerably, especially given the growth of transnational security threats. [fn] Crisis Group telephone interview, Adamu Lawal Toro, acting national publicity secretary, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, 11 April 2021. Hide Footnote

Secondly, the government should ensure that all states participating in the Plan integrate measures to mitigate climate change’s impact, both in better understanding where and how climate factors have exacerbated resource competition and in tailoring policy responses to address future climate projections. Federal authorities should provide states with forecasts of future rainfall and water availability, requiring them to take this modelling into account in selecting ranch locations. In turn, state authorities should develop policy options beyond stationary ranching that more flexibly allow for pastoralists to make use of seasonably available resources while reducing the potential for land disputes.

V. Conclusion

The National Livestock Transformation Plan is no magic wand; it cannot wave herder-farmer conflict away. Nevertheless, its proper implementation could afford many benefits. The comprehensive livestock reform it envisages could modernise Nigeria’s agriculture and improve its efficiency, reduce herder-farmer violence and improve security countrywide. By contrast, its stalled implementation would leave the country exposed to renewed violence between herders and farmers, which would sharpen ethnic, regional and religious divides and put even more pressure on already overstretched security forces. If the federal and state governments fail to deliver results before the 2023 general elections, a new administration could feel justified in shelving the Plan altogether, abandoning it to the fate of previous livestock management reforms. In contrast, progress on the Plan, with visible achievements over the next two years, will help build public support, improving the prospects that it will be sustained to achieve its goals.

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

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How to Start Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria: Business Plan, Cost, Profit, Subsidy, and Challenges

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Greenhouse farming in Nigeria is an excellent way to produce fresh fruits and vegetables all year round. Greenhouse farming protects crops from the environment using a structure made of materials that allow sunlight and other radiation to pass through but limit the loss of heat. Greenhouses allow farmers to grow crops year-round, regardless of the weather conditions outside. 

How to Start Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria

How to start greenhouse farming in Nigeria

It is an agriculture sector where crops are grown in an enclosed environment. Greenhouse farming in Nigeria is a new concept, but it has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in the country. Greenhouse farming requires less water than traditional farming methods, and the enclosed environment can help to conserve water. This is especially important in Nigeria, where water resources are scarce.

  • The first step is to choose a suitable location for your greenhouse farm. The location should be close to a water source and have access to sunlight.
  • Once you’ve chosen a location, you must build the greenhouse structure. There are different greenhouses types available on the market, so make sure you choose one that’s right for your needs.
  • After the greenhouse structure has been built, the next step is soil preparation inside it for planting. This involves adding nutrients and ensuring that the soil has the right pH.
  • Once the soil is ready, you can start planting your crops. Make sure you choose plants suited to being grown in a greenhouse environment.
  • Greenhouse farming in Nigeria is planting and growing crops in an enclosed environment. The main advantage of greenhouse farming is that it allows farmers to environment control in which crops are grown. 
  • Farmers can protect crops from pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions. Greenhouse farming is becoming increasingly popular in Nigeria as more farmers realize its benefits.
  • Finally, you must carefully monitor your greenhouse’s environment and make adjustments. This includes controlling temperature, humidity, and ventilation levels.

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Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria2

It is a rapidly growing industry. The country has a large population and a rapidly growing economy, making it an attractive market for greenhouse farmers. Nigeria also has a climate conducive to greenhouse farming, ample sunlight, and rainfall. The Nigerian government has supported the greenhouse industry’s growth, providing farmers with subsidies and tax breaks. This has helped spur the industry’s growth, with more farmers setting up greenhouses and increasing production.

The government is also improving infrastructure, such as roads and power supply, which will further boost the sector’s development. There are currently around 1,000 hectares of greenhouse farmland in Nigeria, with most farms located in the northern part of the country. The main vegetables grown in greenhouses are tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and eggplants. These crops are in high demand from both local and export markets.

Tomatoes are the most widely-grown crop in Nigerian greenhouses, accounting for almost 60% of total production. Cucumbers are the second most popular crop, followed by peppers and eggplants. Farmers are using modern techniques and inputs to improve yields and quality. For example, hydroponic systems grow crops in nutrient-rich water. This allows for higher yields and a shorter growing season.

  • Greenhouse farming in Nigeria has several benefits over traditional farming methods. The most obvious benefit is the increased yield achieved with greenhouse farming. With the controlled environment of a greenhouse, crops can be grown year-round, meaning a greater harvest is possible.
  • Another benefit of greenhouse farming is the reduction in water usage. In a traditional farm, much water is lost to evaporation and runoff. However, in a greenhouse, the water used to irrigate the plants is recycled and reused, meaning less water is needed overall. This is especially important in areas where water resources are limited.
  • Greenhouses also protect crops from extreme weather conditions, pests, and diseases. The controlled environment of a greenhouse means that farmers can more easily control these factors, leading to healthier plants and higher yields.

Greenhouse farming can be a very profitable business in Nigeria. There are different factors to consider when starting a greenhouse farm, such as the type of crop you want to grow, the climate, and the market for your product. If you are planning on starting a greenhouse farm in Nigeria, it is important to research the market for your product.

Find out what crops are in demand and what prices they are fetching. You will also need to consider the climate when choosing your location. The weather in Nigeria can be unpredictable, so it is essential to choose a location with stable weather patterns. With proper planning and execution, starting a greenhouse farm can be a very profitable endeavor.

Firstly, you must obtain a permit from the Nigerian Agricultural Ministry. Second, you will need to purchase or build a suitable greenhouse. And third, you will need the right skills and knowledge to grow crops successfully in a controlled environment.

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Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria3

Types of greenhouses in Nigeria

This is built with a plastic sheet. It is the common type of greenhouse in Nigeria. The sheet prevents elements of the weather from affecting the crops in the greenhouse. The most common greenhouse type in Nigeria is the plastic tunnel greenhouse. These greenhouses are relatively cheap and easy to construct, which makes them popular among small-scale farmers. However, they can be vulnerable to high winds and are not very durable in the long term.

This is covered with glass. It is a common greenhouse type in the Netherlands and other temperate countries. Glass greenhouses are the most expensive option but offer the best protection for your crops from the elements. They are also easy to ventilate and keep cool in hot weather.

This has a dome shape. The shape makes it appropriate for some places. These are the most expensive but durable options and offer the best protection from the elements.

Nigeria’s top greenhouse farming states are Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Sokoto. These states have the ideal climate for greenhouse farming, with high temperatures and plenty of sunlight. The soil in these states is also suitable for greenhouse farming, as it is rich in nutrients and can retain moisture.

Greenhouse farming can produce various fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In Nigeria, some common crops grown in greenhouses include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and roses. Greenhouse farming can be an important tool for small-scale farmers who want to improve their yields and income.

Some common crops grown in greenhouses in Nigeria include Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Sweet Peppers, and Eggplants. These crops require little water and can tolerate high temperatures. Other popular choices include Beans, Okra, and Squash. These vegetables do best in a cooler climate with ample water availability. Other plants that can be grown in greenhouses in Nigeria include:

AuberginesChinese cabbage
EggplantsCoriander
Sweet cornParsley
BroccoliArugula
CauliflowerHabenero peppers

Nigeria is one of the largest greenhouse growers in the world. The country has a large number of smallholder farmers who grow a variety of crops in greenhouses. These farmers typically use traditional methods, such as manual labor and simple tools. However, some large-scale commercial greenhouse growers are beginning to adopt more modern methods, such as hydroponics and automated systems.

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Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria4

These growers produce many crops, including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and eggplants. The Nigerian government is encouraging the growth of the greenhouse industry by providing subsidies and tax breaks to farmers. In addition, the government is investing in research and development to improve greenhouse technology.

Greenhouse farming in Nigeria is a new and exciting way to produce crops. Farmers can grow crops year-round and protect them from pests and diseases by using a controlled environment. This type of farming is especially well suited to Nigeria, where the climate is hot and humid. Greenhouse crop production in Nigeria has many benefits. For one, it allows farmers to grow plants all year round, which is impossible with traditional outdoor farming. Farmers can get two or even three crops annually, which greatly increases their income.

In addition, greenhouse farming protects crops from pests and diseases, which are common in Nigeria. Finally, greenhouse farming uses less water than traditional farming, which is important in a country with limited water resources. Firstly, you will need to build a greenhouse. Second, you must purchase seeds or seedlings from a reputable supplier. And third, you will need basic knowledge of how to care for your plants. With a little effort, you can start on your way to becoming a successful greenhouse farmer in Nigeria.

  • The size of the greenhouse – Greenhouses can range in size from small backyard models to large commercial operations. The cost of building a greenhouse will depend on the size you need.
  • The materials used – Greenhouses can be made from wood, metal, and plastic. The material type you choose will affect the cost of construction.
  • The location of the greenhouse – The cost of land and building permits can vary depending on where you want to build your greenhouse.
  • The type of climate control system you need – Depending on the climate in Nigeria, you may need to invest in a heating or cooling system for your greenhouse. Then, this will add to the overall cost of construction.
  • The type of crops you want to grow – Some crops require more space or special growing conditions. This can impact the size and type of greenhouse you need and the equipment you’ll need to purchase.

The cost of about 240 square standard greenhouse systems in Nigeria goes between N2 million and N2.5 million. 

  • Decide what type of greenhouse business you want to start. There are many different types of greenhouses, so it’s important to select the one that best suits your needs.
  • Research the climate in Nigeria and the type of plants that grow best. This will help you determine what type of greenhouse you need to build and what plants you can grow.
  • Find a suitable location for your greenhouse business. The location should be close to a water source and have good drainage.
  • Draw up a business plan and consider the costs of building and running the greenhouse and the potential income from selling the plants growing inside it.
  • Apply for any necessary licenses or permits from the Nigerian government before starting construction on your greenhouse.
  • Build your greenhouse using high-quality materials to withstand the harsh Nigerian climate. Please ensure the structure is strong and secure so it doesn’t collapse in heavy rains or windstorms.
  • Install an irrigation system to water your plants easily and efficiently.
  • Fill your greenhouse with soil and plant your chosen crops, making sure to space them out properly, so they have enough room to grow.

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Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria5

  • Greenhouse farming in Nigeria is a relatively new concept with great potential. There are many opportunities for those interested in greenhouse farming to get involved in this rapidly growing industry.
  • Nigeria is a large country with a population of over 180 million people. The climate is tropical, which is ideal for greenhouse farming. The country has a large amount of arable land, but only a small percentage is currently used for agriculture. This leaves a lot of room for growth in the sector.
  • The Nigerian government supports agriculture and has implemented policies to encourage investment in the sector. Incentives are available for those who want to set up greenhouses, and there are tax breaks for agricultural businesses. There is a growing demand for fresh produce from consumers and the hospitality industry in Nigeria. This creates a good market for greenhouse farmers to sell their products.
  • Greenhouse farming offers many benefits over traditional farming methods. Farmers can get more harvests yearly, and crops will not be lost to bad weather conditions.
  • Water usage can also be controlled better in greenhouses, which helps to conserve this valuable resource. Pest and disease control is easier in greenhouses, too, as they can be isolated from the outside environment.

The Government of Nigeria is committed to developing the country’s agricultural sector and promoting greenhouse farming to achieve food security. To encourage the adoption of this technology by farmers, the government provides a subsidy on the cost of constructing a greenhouse. The subsidy is available to any farmer who wishes to construct a greenhouse on their farm.

The subsidy will cover up to 50% of the construction cost, with a maximum subsidy of 200,000 nairas. Farmers must submit an application to the Ministry of Agriculture to access the subsidy. The application must include a business plan for the proposed greenhouse project. Once approved, farmers will receive a cheque for the amount of the subsidy from the ministry.

The government aims to have 5,000 greenhouses constructed across Nigeria within three years. This would increase the production of vegetables and fruits by 15-20%, helping to meet the product demand in Nigeria. In addition, it is hoped that this initiative will create jobs and help reduce poverty in rural communities.

Nigeria’s biggest challenge facing greenhouse farming is the high construction and operation cost. However, if the government were to invest in this type of agriculture, it would have the potential to transform the country’s agricultural sector. The challenges of greenhouse farming in Nigeria are many and varied. The main challenge is the lack of access to affordable electricity. This is a major problem as greenhouses require a constant electricity supply. Other challenges include the high cost of greenhouse materials, lack of trained personnel, and limited knowledge about greenhouse farming among farmers.

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Greenhouse Farming in Nigeria6

Despite these challenges, there are different opportunities for greenhouse farming in Nigeria. The country has a large population with a growing demand for fresh vegetables and fruits. Nigerians also have an increasing awareness of the benefits of eating fresh produce. If more farmers can overcome the challenges associated with greenhouse farming, they will be able to provide Nigerians with healthy, fresh food all year round.

Greenhouse problems in Nigeria include high initial costs, lack of technical knowledge, and unreliable power and water supplies. Greenhouse farming can be an important tool for smallholder farmers in Nigeria, but these farmers face significant challenges in adopting the technology. Lack of technical knowledge is another challenge faced by smallholders interested in greenhouse farming.

Commercial greenhouses are typically operated using sophisticated equipment and materials that are not widely available in Nigeria. As a result, smallholders often do not have the necessary skills or resources to construct and maintain a greenhouse. Unreliable power and water supplies are also major hurdles for smallholder farmers attempting to adopt greenhouse agriculture.

Power outages in many parts of Nigeria are common, making it difficult to operate irrigation systems and other farm equipment. Even when power is available, it is often too expensive for smallholders to use regularly. Similarly, water shortages are a frequent problem in Nigeria, making it difficult to irrigate crops effectively.

The climate in Nigeria is tropical, with hot and humid weather year-round. This climate is well suited for greenhouse farming as long as the greenhouses are designed to withstand high winds and heavy rains. Greenhouse farming allows for year-round crop production, which is beneficial in a country like Nigeria, where the climate can be unpredictable. Crops grown in a greenhouse are also protected from pests and diseases, which can wreak havoc on traditional farms.

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Very rich information. I am interested in starting a greenhouse. How do I get a guide or a reliable consultant to partner with?

I appreciate the information on this site. Though it’s written in 2022, but I’m optimistic there’s little or no changes at all. I have about 14 plots of land around Epe, Lagos that I’m looking to use for integrated farming and I will certainly be needing a greenhouse that I can afford.

Its well articulated and educative write up for the beginners and those that want refreshed their insights on Greenhouse farming.

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business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

Nu 910.5m allocated for agriculture marketing in 13th Plan

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The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL) has allocated Nu 910.5 million in the 13th Plan for agriculture marketing and cooperatives. The ministry aims to strengthen its GDP contribution through enhanced marketing.  

In the National Assembly (NA) deliberations on June 18, Mongar MP Naiten Wangchuk raised a question on the government’s promise to increase the agriculture ministry’s GDP contribution to Nu 50 billion by 2029 from Nu 27 billion in 2027 with the focus on commercialisation of crops and livestock production, priority being given to high-value crops and livestock products.

He said that, given the limited capacity of the domestic market to absorb commercial agriculture products, the ultimate objective is to export and attain the targeted GDP contribution.  

“There is a need to prioritise enhancing the capacity of the National Food Testing Laboratory,” he said. The investment, he added, should be made in human resources and integrating regional collaboration through memorandums of understanding to harmonise food safety standards.

“In the 13th Plan, the budget for the Department of Agriculture Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC) and the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) should be reviewed and reprioritized under the project-tied assistance or the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP),” he said.

In response, the MoAL minister, Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho, reported that, in the 13th Plan, the DAMC had been allocated a total budget of Nu 910.5 million.

He said the DAMC had proposed three projects, namely the promotion of large-scale commercial farming to increase farmers’ income and agri-economic development, enhancing support to subsistence farming for improved livelihood and food security, and promotion of high-value products for export.

To achieve this, Lyonpo said activities include strengthening farmers’ groups and cooperatives, strengthening renewable natural resources (RNR) enterprises, and enhancing RNR marketing and value chain.  

“An agri-food economic hub will be established in Paro for high-value export commodities like asparagus, strawberry, mushroom, trout, and broccoli,” he said. Another agri-food economic hub will be established in Sarpang to export bulk commodities like ginger, areca nut, turmeric, mandarin, potato, and cardamom.

Similarly, to support subsistence farming activities, accessibility and affordability of essential food items will be prioritised.

Lyonpo also said that high-value products for export will be promoted through premium-quality product development for the high-end market and the establishment of new markets.

“The agriculture sector has been allocated Nu 2 billion from the ESP,” Lyonpo said. “However, it will be implemented by the Farm Machinery Corporation Limited, the Bhutan Livestock Development Corporation Limited, and the Bhutan Development Bank Limited.”

The ministry will liaise closely with these agencies to ensure that the ministry’s priority activities are undertaken. A budget has been allocated for the product certification process.

Lyonpo said that the BFDA had been streamlined under the health ministry. In the 13th Plan, the budget for the BFDA is 656.57 million. If it needs more, the health ministry will allocate additional funds.

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Global Sustainable Aquaculture Advancement Partnership (GSAAP)

In nigeria, small-scale farmers boost their food security by growing rice and fish together.

This agroecological practice is a sustainable way to diversify rural livelihoods, in line with the FAO Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture

business plan for livestock farming in nigeria

14 June, Rome – Traditional rice growers in Nigeria have found that by introducing fish into their fields they can boost their yields and cut costs, which means more money in their pockets to buy food for themselves and their families.

They did so by working with an FAO project to diversify rural livelihoods, which ran from 2021 to 2023 in two areas where most of the population are small-scale rice farmers: Kebbi State in the northwest and Ebonyi State in the southeast.

The project was coordinated by FAO in partnership with the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and the University of Georgia with funding from Mississippi State University, both in the United States of America.

Integrating aquaculture with agriculture is in line with the new FAO Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture (GSA), which specifically encourage States to promote this practice in small-scale farming systems as a catalyst especially for poor communities to improve food security and nutrition, increase farm biodiversity and build resilience to climate change.

The challenge

Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) had highlighted that small-scale farmers were having trouble producing enough to cover their basic needs, leading to a high prevalence of food insecurity, undernourishment, and undernutrition.

“A large proportion of the population reported worrying about running out of food, compromising on quality and variety of food, reducing quantities, skipping meals and/or experiencing hunger,” said FAO Senior Fishery Officer Matthias Halwart.

Rice monocropping has limited productivity, and Nigerian farmers often turn to imported agrochemicals to boost yields. This is expensive for them due to disruptions in global fertiliser supply chains and local currency fluctuations, and it also has negative impacts on human and ecosystem health.

Integrated rice-fish farming on the other hand can make fields more productive because the two species enter a symbiotic relationship: by swimming among the rice plants, the fish act as natural pest control agents while their excrement becomes organic fertilizer.

The solution

The project team worked closely with farmers, extension workers, and graduate students from the University of Ibadan to co-create a process for integrating fish farming into existing rice fields at six pilot sites in the two states. The goal was to deliver lasting, culturally acceptable results with a focus on sustainability. 

“We adopted a participatory approach, so the entire initiative became farmer-driven,” recounts FAO Project Coordinator Oluwafemi Ajayi. “They were at the forefront of the process, and this was a big factor in its successful uptake.”

After two production cycles lasting 4-5 months each, rice yields rose by 5 percent and farmer incomes increased by up to 48 percent compared to when they practiced rice monocropping, according to research at the pilot sites.

Not only that, but news of the on-farm trainings and demonstrations had spread through word-of-mouth.

“More and more people kept showing up,” Ajayi said. “The project was initially slated to reach 200 beneficiaries and we ended up with 700, plus many more that we were not able to register officially.”

By the end of the project, farmers at all the pilot sites reported notable improvements in their food security, nutrition, and livelihoods: their diets became more diverse because they integrated fish into their daily meals, and thanks to boosted crop yields they also had more income to buy a variety of foods.

“The farmers expressed a strong willingness to continue practicing these methods and volunteered to share their knowledge with peers in their respective communities,” according to FAO Fishery Officer Austin Stankus.

Farmers are practical: they need to see to believe, because it can take their land, crops and/or livestock years to recover from a production mistake. In Nigeria, farmers became enthusiastic about agroecological rice-fish farming because it was demonstrated to them on plots, where it became readily apparent that this technique was more profitable than traditional monocropping.

“I began rice-fish farming because my farm is my business. Now I eat better at home and make money by selling my crops, which assists my livelihood,” project beneficiary Hajia Fatima Aliu told the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Fish (FIL ), which is managed by Mississippi State University and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The outlook

Based on the huge amount of interest from neighbouring farmers at the pilot sites, FAO has continued to work with the University of Ibadan through the Global Sustainable Aquaculture Advancement Partnership (GSAAP) and other funds to consolidate and expand these activities.

Local authorities have also welcomed the initiative: in Kebbi, the state government is developing a so-called Empowerment Package based on agroecological rice-fish farming and is seeking co-funding opportunities to expand the practice to many more areas, according to Ajayi.

“We were able to demonstrate that this practice can alleviate poverty and provide food security and dietary diversity with minimal impact on the environment, because once you introduce fish into your rice fields you won’t need chemical fertilizers,” he explained.

Evidence of the success has been provided to government stakeholders to encourage consideration of rice-fish farming as a policymaking strategy to deliver national development targets. As well, a knowledge-transfer request was made by Mali to scale up the initiative there, demonstrating the potential for the project to have a global impact.

About the GSA

The GSA were drafted by FAO and its Members through a consultative process that spanned eight years. Their underlying vision is of an aquaculture sector that contributes significantly to a world free from hunger and to the equitable improvement of the living standards of all actors in its value chains, including the poorest.

The GSA are global, voluntary, adaptable, and complementary to existing laws and regulations. They rest on the principles of sustainability, environmental stewardship, non-discrimination, the rule of law, equity and equality, participation, transparency and accountability, and the use of the EAA.

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  29. Nu 910.5m allocated for agriculture marketing in 13th Plan

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL) has allocated Nu 910.5 million in the 13th Plan for agriculture marketing and cooperatives. The ministry aims to strengthen its GDP contribution through enhanced marketing. ... "However, it will be implemented by the Farm Machinery Corporation Limited, the Bhutan Livestock Development ...

  30. In Nigeria, small-scale farmers boost their food security by growing

    14 June, Rome - Traditional rice growers in Nigeria have found that by introducing fish into their fields they can boost their yields and cut costs, which means more money in their pockets to buy food for themselves and their families. They did so by working with an FAO project to diversify rural livelihoods, which ran from 2021 to 2023 in two areas where most of the population are small ...