The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen trade and economic collaboration with the Brazilian government, with a particular focus on livestock transformation.
Speaking at the Nigeria-Brazil Trade Mission in Abuja on Monday, January 27, 2025, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, reiterated the shared potential of the two nations, stressing the need to scale up investments and trade partnerships to benefit the two countries.
The Minister noted that despite a long-standing relationship and cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil, trade volume between the two countries remains significantly low.
Mukhtar explained that Nigeria recently secured a landmark $2.5 billion commitment with Brazil, which focuses on advancing livestock production. This commitment will see to the introduction of advanced genetics for livestock, modern feeds and fodder, improved disease management practices, and meat processing and packaging for both domestic and the global global market.
“We are working to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector, ensuring it is globally competitive. The creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is already triggering significant interest locally and internationally, as investors are keen to tap into Nigeria’s vast livestock resources” the Minister said, adding, “our goal is to transform the sector into a vibrant contributor to economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. We have much to learn from Brazil’s successful models.”
The Minister also highlighted the Ministry’s plans to modernise abattoirs nationwide to meet international hygiene and quality standards, adding that the initiative enjoys the full political support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
Earlier, the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Carlos Garcete revealed that the $2.5 billion agreement signed between Brazil’s JBS and the Nigerian government will lead to the establishment of six meat processig, packaging and cold transportation facilities in Nigeria.
