T he Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has disclosed that Nigeria earns approximately $1.2 billion each year from the export of hides and skins within its livestock sector. The revelation underscores the substantial economic impact of the livestock industry in the country.
At a press conference held in Abuja on Sunday, MACBAN President Othman Ngelzarma emphasized the significant economic potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector. He noted that the sector, currently valued at over ₦33 trillion ($72 billion), is projected to grow to more than ₦75 trillion ($164 billion) with new investments.
Ngelzarma expressed support for the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, which President Bola Tinubu approved on July 9, 2024. The ministry is tasked with addressing the persistent farmers-herders crisis and implementing sector-focused solutions.
“The creation of this crucial ministry is a landmark development for an industry that contributes 10 percent to Nigeria’s non-oil GDP and 30 percent to agricultural GDP,” Ngelzarma said. “We commend President Tinubu for recognizing the sector’s vital role in employing over 20 million Nigerians.”
The farmers-herders conflict, primarily between pastoralist herders, mostly from the Fulani ethnic group, and sedentary farmers, has been exacerbated by competition for land and water resources, climate change, and population growth. This conflict has led to violent clashes, loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of communities.
Ngelzarma highlighted the exceptional value of Nigerian livestock products, citing the Sokoto red skin goat leather as one of the most valuable and sought-after globally. He pointed out that luxury brands like Gucci and Armani use Nigerian leather in their products.
With enhanced investments and reforms, Nigeria could see a tenfold increase in foreign exchange earnings from the livestock sector, according to Ngelzarma. He also emphasized that modernizing livestock production could save the country billions of dollars in foreign exchange currently spent on importing powdered milk and other livestock products.
In addition to reducing import costs, Nigeria stands to earn substantial revenue from the export of leather, beef, and other value-added livestock products. The sector supports a diverse workforce, including butchers, transporters, tax collectors, and producers of various types of livestock, such as cows, pigs, goats, sheep, fish, donkeys, and camels.
Ngelzarma also addressed concerns and misconceptions about the new ministry. He clarified that MACBAN, as an advocacy group, is dedicated to promoting the welfare of pastoralists across Nigeria, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
“We are disappointed by recent comments suggesting that the livestock ministry is a Fulani agenda or an attempt to take land by force,” Ngelzarma said. “Such insinuations are unfounded and undermine the sector’s contributions to our national economy and social fabric.”
The establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development marks a significant step in addressing long-standing issues within the sector and fostering its growth and sustainability.
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