FG Unveils Ambitious Plan to Make Plateau Nigeria’s Livestock Capital

..... As Idi Mukhtar Maiha outlines a comprehensive strategy designed to unlock the state's vast livestock potential, create jobs, boost food security, attract investments, and foster peaceful coexistence among communities.

The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming Plateau State into Nigeria’s foremost livestock production, research, and peacebuilding hub through massive investments in ranching, dairy production, feedlot development, grazing reserve rehabilitation, and livestock value-chain expansion.

Speaking at a Livestock Stakeholders Meeting held in Jos on Monday, June 15, 2026, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, outlined a comprehensive strategy designed to unlock the state's vast livestock potential, create jobs, boost food security, attract investments, and foster peaceful coexistence among communities.

Maiha described Plateau as a historic centre of livestock innovation and veterinary excellence, noting that the state possesses unique advantages that position it as a natural hub for livestock development in Nigeria.

He also expressed condolences to the government and people of Plateau State over recent security challenges and loss of lives, stressing that sustainable economic activities remain critical to promoting peace and shared prosperity.

According to the Minister, Plateau's status as Nigeria's livestock knowledge capital is reinforced by the presence of key institutions such as the National Veterinary Research Institute and the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, which have played pivotal roles in livestock research and capacity development for more than a century.

A major highlight of the government's plan is the proposed establishment of a modern ranch on approximately 30,000 hectares within the Wase Grazing Reserve. The project, being pursued in collaboration with Defence Headquarters under the National Ranching Policy, is expected to improve livestock productivity, reduce conflicts associated with open grazing, and create sustainable livelihoods for thousands of residents.

The Minister disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is also promoting large-scale feedlot development across Plateau State, positioning the state to become a major centre for cattle, sheep, goat, and pig fattening enterprises.

To strengthen the livestock value chain, the government plans to modernise critical infrastructure, including the expansion of abattoir facilities capable of processing up to 500 cattle and 500 pigs daily.

Maiha identified several high-potential investment opportunities in the sector, including commercial pasture cultivation, dairy production, homestead dairy enterprises, sheep and goat fattening, piggery development, and livestock waste management. He noted that these sectors offer significant prospects for employment generation, particularly for women and youths.

Emphasising the economic importance of the livestock industry, the minister urged stakeholders to view livestock development beyond traditional agriculture.

"Livestock is central to national food security, job creation, wealth creation, and social stability. The future of livestock in Plateau should be organised, scientific, inclusive, peaceful, and profitable," he stated.

He called on the Plateau State Government, local government authorities, development partners, financial institutions, private investors, traditional rulers, and community leaders to collaborate in creating an enabling environment for sustainable livestock development.

The Minister further challenged stakeholders to seize the opportunity to reposition Plateau State as Nigeria's leading livestock enterprise destination capable of feeding the nation, empowering women and youths, attracting investments, and promoting lasting peace.

The initiative forms part of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development's broader mandate to enhance livestock productivity, strengthen veterinary services, promote ranch development, facilitate private-sector participation, and advance sustainable livestock systems across the country.

With the proposed ranching projects, expanded processing facilities, feedlot investments, and dairy development programmes, the Federal Government's latest intervention signals a major push to transform Plateau State into a livestock powerhouse and a key driver of Nigeria's agricultural and economic growth.