ACCI Says Livestock Sector Overhaul Will Strengthen Nigeria’s GDP

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has expressed confidence that the Federal Government’s new livestock reforms will significantly enhance Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by unlocking the full potential of the sector. The Chamber noted that the reforms, aimed at modernising livestock production, improving market access, and addressing security challenges in pastoral communities, could transform the industry into a major driver of economic growth and job creation.

In a statement, ACCI President, Dr. Al-Mujtaba Abubakar, commended the government for prioritising livestock development as part of its broader agricultural transformation agenda. He observed that despite Nigeria’s large population of cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry, the livestock industry has underperformed for decades due to outdated practices, poor infrastructure, and recurring farmer-herder conflicts. According to him, the reforms offer an opportunity to shift from subsistence production to commercial-scale operations that can meet both domestic and export demands.

Dr. Abubakar explained that the government’s livestock plan covers critical areas such as breeding improvement, veterinary services, feed production, disease control, and investment in modern processing facilities. He stressed that these initiatives, when effectively implemented, will not only increase productivity but also create value-added products that can compete in global markets.

He also highlighted the importance of integrating technology into livestock farming, noting that innovations in animal health monitoring, feed efficiency, and supply chain management could boost yields and profitability. The Chamber urged the government to partner with research institutions, private investors, and development agencies to scale up such innovations across the country.

Security in rural areas, particularly in states with large grazing reserves, remains a major concern for the sector. Dr. Abubakar emphasised that the government must address the root causes of pastoral conflicts through inclusive policies that accommodate both herders and crop farmers. He advocated for the establishment of well-managed ranching systems, equipped with water facilities, fodder banks, and veterinary clinics, to reduce open grazing and promote sustainable livestock management.

The ACCI also underscored the potential of the livestock value chain in creating millions of jobs, especially for rural youth and women. From animal rearing to processing, packaging, and distribution, the industry offers diverse employment opportunities. Dr. Abubakar noted that with adequate training and access to finance, smallholder livestock farmers could transition into thriving agribusiness enterprises.

He further stressed that Nigeria’s quest for food security and economic diversification will be incomplete without a vibrant livestock industry. Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), he pointed out that agriculture remains one of the largest contributors to Nigeria’s GDP, yet livestock’s share is relatively small compared to crop production. Boosting the sector, he argued, would not only raise GDP figures but also reduce the country’s dependence on imported animal products such as milk, cheese, and meat.

Dr. Abubakar called on state governments to align with the Federal Government’s reforms by developing local livestock policies that reflect the peculiarities of their regions. He suggested that each state identify its comparative advantage within the livestock value chain, whether in dairy production, poultry farming, or leather processing, and invest accordingly.

The Chamber also urged the government to ensure that policies are backed by adequate funding and transparent implementation frameworks. He cautioned that without consistent monitoring and evaluation, the reforms could fall short of their intended goals. To this end, he recommended setting up public-private task forces to oversee execution and resolve bottlenecks promptly.

Market access is another area the ACCI believes requires urgent attention. Dr. Abubakar called for the development of modern livestock markets and cold chain facilities to minimise post-harvest losses and maintain quality standards. He added that improved road networks, rail connectivity, and digital trading platforms could help farmers reach more buyers efficiently.

On the international front, the ACCI urged the government to leverage trade agreements to position Nigerian livestock products in regional and global markets. He noted that with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) now in force, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to dominate livestock trade in West and Central Africa, provided it meets quality and safety standards.

The ACCI president concluded by reiterating the Chamber’s readiness to collaborate with the government, private sector players, and international partners to actualise the livestock reforms. He maintained that with coordinated action, Nigeria could transform its livestock sector into a powerhouse of economic growth, food security, and rural development.

If fully implemented, the Federal Government’s livestock reforms could mark a turning point for an industry that has long been plagued by inefficiencies. With the right investments, policies, and stakeholder collaboration, the sector could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, reduce unemployment, and improve livelihoods nationwide.