Nigeria requires stronger technical capability across value chain to unlock dairy potential – Minister

…As Nestlé, FG sign MoU on livestock development partnership

Mukhtar Idi Maiha, minister of Livestock Development, has said that Nigeria’s dairy sector holds significant potential, but unlocking it requires stronger technical capability across the value chain.

He made this known during the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing between Nestlé Nigeria Plc and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to establish a Dairy Technical Skills Development Centre in Paikon Kore, Gwagwalada, as part of efforts to strengthen technical capacity, improve milk quality, and enhance productivity within Nigeria’s dairy sector.

“This partnership represents a practical step towards improving productivity and quality, and I commend Nestlé Nigeria for their continued commitment and proven track record through the Nestlé Livestock Development Project, demonstrating what is possible when the right systems are in place,” Maiha stated.

He also disclosed that the ministry is committed to creating an enabling environment that supports investments in livestock development, ensuring that policy and partnerships work together to drive meaningful impact and build a more resilient and competitive dairy industry.

The Minister noted that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Dairy Policy under the National Development Plan, which aims to catalyse growth in the livestock and dairy sectors while enhancing food security and economic opportunity.

“At Nestlé, we have been working over the years to strengthen the dairy value chain in Nigeria. What we have seen is clear, when capability improves, outcomes follow,” Wassim Elhusseini, managing director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, stated.

According to him, the partnership with the ministry of Livestock Development allows Nestlé to expand the reach of its structured approach to building the skills required to improve productivity, enhance quality, and support long-term sustainability in the sector.

Elhusseini added that the company’s investment in dairy development has consistently focused on creating shared value for communities while supporting the growth of a resilient local supply base.

Following the signing of the MoU, both parties will move into implementation, including finalising the training framework, preparing the site at the Demonstration Farm, and commencing phased rollout of the programme in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

The Dairy Technical Skills Development Centre will provide a structured platform for training and capacity building, with a focus on developing mid-level technical skills that are critical to the long-term sustainability of the sector.

The programme will be implemented in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment with national standards and industry needs.

By scaling proven interventions and strengthening technical capability, the partnership will contribute to building a more resilient dairy sector that supports livelihoods, strengthens local production, and advances national development.