Minister, Livestock Development Commissions Nestlé Nigeria Demonstration Dairy Farm

"Nestlé's investment aligns seamlessly with our national agenda for livestock development. The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is fully committed to creating an enabling environment for investments like this to thrive," Maiha.

The Nestlé Nigeria Demonstration Dairy Farm at the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve in Gwagwalada, Abuja has been commissioned by the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha. 

A statement from the Ministry, signed by Ben Ben Goings, Director Information and Public Relations disclosed that "this  initiative is part of Nestlé Nigeria’s Livestock Development Project; a commitment to strengthening the local dairy industry and improving the livelihoods of milk producers."

Speaking at the event which took place on 6, February 2025, the Minister commended Nestlé Nigeria and its partners 2Scale, CBI Innovations Limited, and the Federal Capital Territory Administration, for their collaboration in driving progress in the dairy sector. 

”First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nestlé Nigeria for this remarkable initiative. The establishment of this model dairy farm demonstrates Nestlé's unwavering commitment to backward integration, fostering local agriculture, supporting Nigerian farmers, and contributing to the sustainable development goals (1,2,8,17).

”As we all know, the dairy sector holds immense potential for Nigeria. As the Federal Government works tirelessly to diversify our economy, we recognise the critical role livestock production plays in creating jobs, generating income, and improving nutrition for our people. 

"Furthermore, Nestlé's investment aligns seamlessly with our national agenda for livestock development. The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is fully committed to creating an enabling environment for investments like this to thrive," Maiha stated.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives through policies that improve infrastructure, access to finance, and veterinary services.

"We are focused on addressing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and the need for enhanced veterinary services. Through partnerships with the private sector and international development agencies, we aim to ensure the livestock subsector realizes its full potential," he added.

The Managing Director of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Wassim Elhusseini, described the event as a milestone in Nestlé’s commitment to advancing the local dairy industry. 

He stated: "This event marks a milestone in our commitment to advancing the local dairy industry through the Nestlé Nigeria Livestock Development Project, which is one of our creating shared value initiatives impacting individuals and families, communities, and also the planet. 

"As a leading food and beverage company, Nestlé is dedicated to unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come."

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CBI Innovations Limited, Olusoji Apampa, harped on the broader significance of the project. 


According to him, "This occasion marks not only the realization of a vision but also the beginning of a transformative era in Nigeria's dairy industry. At the heart of our venture is a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community."

During a tour of the facility, the Minister acknowledged the modern infrastructure in place, including semi-automated milking systems, sustainable waste management practices, and improved animal feed. 

Since 2019, Nestlé Nigeria has invested over ₦1.8 billion to support pastoralists in and around the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve. From an initial collection of 200 liters of milk in June 1, 2021, the daily collection has now grown to an average of 6,000 liters at the Paikon Kore milk collection and cooling center. 

Over the past year and eight months, the animal population on the farm has grown from 20 to 71, with artificial insemination playing a key role in breed improvement.

The project's ambition is to aggregate 30, 000 litres of milk per day by November 2027, by improving local breeds and applying best dairy farming practices.