The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Plateau State into a leading livestock production, research, and peacebuilding hub through strategic investments in ranching, feedlot development, dairy production, grazing reserve rehabilitation, and livestock value-chain expansion.
Speaking at a Livestock Stakeholders Meeting in Jos on Monday,, 15rh June , 2026, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described Plateau State as a historic centre of livestock innovation and veterinary excellence, urging stakeholders to leverage its rich heritage to drive economic growth, job creation, food security, and lasting peace.
The Minister expressed, condolences to the Government and people of Plateau State over recent security challenges and loss of lives, while emphasizing the need to promote economic activities that unite communities and foster shared prosperity.
According to the Minister, Plateau State possesses unique advantages, including the presence of the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, and other livestock-focused institutions that have positioned the state as Nigeria’s livestock knowledge capital for over a century.
He announced that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is working with the Defence Head Quaters to advance the National Ranching Policy and support the establishment of a modern ranch on approximately 30,000 hectares within the Wase Grazing Reserve. The initiative is expected to improve livestock productivity, reduce conflicts associated with uncontrolled grazing, and create sustainable livelihoods for thousands of residents.
The Minister further unveiled plans to promote feedlot development across the state, noting that Plateau has the potential to become a major Livestock hub for cattle, sheep, goat, and pig fattening enterprises.
He revealed that efforts are underway to modernize livestock infrastructure, including expanding abattoir capacity to process up to 500 cattle and 500 pigs daily.
Highlighting key investment opportunities, the Minister, identified commercial pasture cultivation, dairy production, homestead dairy enterprises, sheep and goat fattening, piggery development, and livestock waste management as strategic sectors capable of generating employment, particularly for women and young people.
He stressed that livestock development must be viewed not merely as an agricultural activity but as a business enterprise capable of driving rural transformation, reducing poverty, and strengthening social cohesion.
“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,” the Minister stated.
The Honourable Minister, called on the Plateau State Government, local governments, development partners, financial institutions, private investors, traditional rulers, and community leaders to collaborate in creating an enabling environment for sustainable livestock development.
The Minister concluded by urging stakeholders to seize the opportunity to reposition Plateau State as Nigeria’s foremost livestock enterprise hub, capable of feeding the nation, empowering women and youths, attracting investments, and promoting peaceful coexistence among communities.
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is mandated to enhance livestock productivity, ensure food security, promote economic growth, support ranch development, strengthen veterinary services, facilitate private-sector investment, and advance sustainable livestock systems across Nigeria.
Henrietta Okokon
Deputy Director Press and Public Relations
15/6/26
