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From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has announced plans to establish a Dairy Training Institute to enhance capacity across the dairy value chain in Nigeria.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, made this known during a meeting with stakeholders in Abuja.
He stated there was need for technical training to bridge the knowledge gap in dairy farming, explaining that the institute would equip both prospective and practising dairy farmers with essential skills.
“This training institute will provide hands-on knowledge in pasture cultivation, feed and fodder management, dairy animal husbandry, health management, animal breeding, milk collection, preservation and transportation. If we want a thriving dairy sector, we must empower those working at the heart of it,” the Minister said.
He commended NESTLÉ Nigeria for its commitment to developing the local dairy industry, particularly its efforts in promoting indigenous cattle breeds.
He further stressed the importance of curbing milk adulteration, adding that the government was taking steps to revamp grazing reserves to reduce uncontrolled cattle movement, especially in the urban areas.
“If we are serious about commercial dairy farming in Nigeria, we must put the right structures in place. That includes proper grazing reserves, organised milk collection systems and stronger regulations against milk adulteration,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of NESTLÉ Nigeria, Victoria Ndee Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead, disclosed that, “Between 2021 and 2024, we aggregated over 1.65 million litres of milk.”
The company operates a modern dairy demonstration farm in Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve in Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT, which was commissioned by the Minister on February 6, 2025.
