Meat business is a huge business. The global beef market alone is massive.

According to Global Beef Market Report for 2023, global beef market is projected to hit 421.61 billion dollars by 2028, with a 4.05 per cent compound annual growth rate.

The figure is a leap from 332.

29 billion dollars in 2022, In other words, over the next couples of years, the world’s beef industry is forecast to grow by 90 billion dollars.

The United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics Database (UN Comtrade) says Nigeria Exports of meat and edible meat offal stood at 200.66 dollars in 2021.

According to Statista, the Meat market in Nigeria is projected to grow by 10.

90 per cent between 2025 and 2029 resulting in a market volume of 71.84 billion dollars in 2029.

Annually, the country consumes around 360,000 metric tonnes of beef, it says.

China is the world’s largest importer of beef, importing more than 63 billion dollars worth of beef in the past 5 years, according to Iowa Farm Bureau.

One of the largest livestock breeding states in the country, Borno, sees the livestock market as a huge opportunity to improve revenue and become less dependent on handouts from the Federation Account.

It was against the background that the Prof. Babagana Zulum-led administration inaugurated the Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement Estate, the first of its kind in the state at Mafa Local Government Area.

According to Dr Umar Kadafur, Deputy Governor and Supervising Commissioner, Livestock and Fisheries Development Ministry, the Ngarannam livestock estate was designed in line with the required operational tools, equipment and infrastructure.

“These centres will play a vital role in enhancing the quality of livestock breeds, with a particular focus on improving milk and meat production.

“Borno State Government built and equipped the multi-million-naira Ngarannam Breeding Centre and Provided over 1.5 billion naira  for AI, Embroy Plssma Transfer Centres as well Liquid Nitrogen complex in the 2025 Budge,’’ he said

Kadafur said the pasture Development Centres, were critical for sustainable grazing, as they offer dedicated spaces for pasture cultivation to ensure year-round feed availability for livestock as designed in the project.

“Currently Borno State Ministry of Livestock is managing 20 hectares of pasture under irrigation and cultivated well over 200 hectares of Rain fed pasture across the state.

“By establishing milk collection hubs, we create opportunities for dairy farmers to earn a stable income, increase local milk production, and meet our state’s dairy needs,” the deputy governor said.

It is important that Borno takes advantage of its location, human and material resources to tap into the huge livestock market, said Prof. Attahiru Jega in his keynote at the event at the inauguration.

Jega, who is also the Co-chair of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, spoke on: “Reforms in the Nigerian Livestock Sector: Unlocking Great Potentials for Economic Growth and Peaceful Coexistence.”

Jega’s paper focused on the long-term impact of the livestock industry in Nigeria and the effects of business expansion without perfecting viable marketing strategies.

“It is essential to prioritise and address the unique challenges faced by different regions,” he said, even as he emphasised improving productivity across the livestock value chain is a national priority.

Jega pointed out that regions with low animal output and market access may benefit more from first addressing market-related issues rather than focusing on productivity.

“Already a media report had established that China has been identified as one of the biggest beef markets in the world.

“If I were Zulum, I would take advantage of this information and see how the state’s livestock breeders could fashion their business standard to international best practices.

“This is in order to suit the demands of the teeming beef consumers in China and beyond,’’ Jega said.

Jega also urged the expansion of successful practices and models in managing the ranches, noting that many effective practices were currently being implemented on a small scale.

“Borno government has to start preparing the state’s livestock products to be competitive by  showcasing their healthy and well-fed cows before the international markets.

“For example, the development of improved animal breeds suited to various regions should be prioritised, especially for poultry adapted to specific agro-ecologies.

“Small and medium-scale dairy producers must embrace innovation and growth to remain competitive.

“Evidence indicates that start-ups and smaller dairy producers can thrive as demonstrated by small and medium-sized dairy companies driving the 1.1 billion dollars growth in the US dairy sector between 2015 and 2018,” he said.

Jega, therefore, called on the state to adopt diverse and integrated strategies, saying a multifaceted approach may be more effective in enhancing livestock value chains.

According to him, the transformative reforms in Nigeria’s livestock sector will enhance productivity, reduce poverty, generate wealth, and bolster both domestic and international trade through import substitution.

“The livestock sector holds vast potential to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and promote sustainable development throughout Nigeria.

“However, significant challenges persist, and addressing them strategically and systematically, is the best, if not only way, to pave the way for a prosperous and peaceful future,” he argued.

But given the huge potential in the market, abandoning or neglecting it because of challenges is not an option.

“It is crucial to evaluate what works best for different producer categories and end-users, tailoring solutions accordingly.

“Additionally, building the ability of smallholder farmers is necessary to help them fully capitalise on the opportunities offered by value chain development.

“Strengthen commitment to animal agriculture research with a long-term focus Research should not be solely focused on quick, short-term solutions but should also prioritise sustainable models that foster long-term growth.

“The animal agriculture sector requires research that is responsive to the evolving needs of consumers and end-users.

“Develop more practical research-business strategies for the sub-sector, especially in vaccine production.

“The livestock sector needs strategies that bridge research and business, particularly in areas like vaccine development, to ensure greater industry resilience and sustainability,’’ Jega recommended.

He further advocated the establishment of “appropriate regulations with a focus on animal welfare, implementation of clear regulations that prioritise animal welfare, among others.

The Ministry of Livestock Development is at the centre of ensuring that the dream of leveraging the livestock market to boost internally-generated revenue is a reality.

The minister in charge of the ministry, Idi Maiha says in spite of challenges, it is achievable in line with Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Maiha said identifying with the Ngarannam Livestock Estate was a demonstration of collective agenda of expanding the commercial value of the nation’s livestock sector.

Maiha further said his ministry was currently embarking on key interventions to support the efforts of state governments to harness the inherent potential of the sector.

“These include rehabilitation of the grazing reserves and livestock markets across the country, breed improvement and vaccination against trans-boundary animal diseases such as contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste-Des-Petits-Ruminants (PPR).

“Furthermore, feed and fodder value chain is being organised through the cluster and productive alliance models for sustainable production.

“The goal is to transform the feed and fodder component of the value chain into growing businesses that would guaranty profit for the farmers,” the minister said.

One major obstacle to the growth and development of Borno State and other states in the northeast region over the decades is the Boko Haram insurgency.

Livestock farming is major aspect of life that took a hit as the insurgents took over swaths of land in the state.

Fortunately, Chief of Army Staff, Lieut.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, during a recent visit to expressed commitment to end the insurgency as soon as possible even as most portions under insurgents’ control have been reclaimed.

With peace returning to the area, it is expected that livestock business will begin to thrive once again. Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement Estate will be in a prime position to flourish.

Zulum appreciates the role of livestock sub-sector in supporting rural livelihoods and enhancing food security within the state’s borders as encapsulated in his 25-Year Development Plan as well as the 10 –Pact Agenda.

“The creation of these three Rural Grazing Area (RUGA) centres marks a significant milestone in our journey towards economic revitalisation and sustainable development.

“Each of these centres is a hub of comprehensive infrastructure, encompassing over 27 essential facilities that will enable our people to thrive and prosper in livestock and agricultural activities.

“These facilities include a housing estate complete with road networks, schools, health clinics, veterinary services, and state-of-the-art dairy and beef upgrading centres.

“We have established pasture development centres, milk collection centres, earth dams to secure water supply, markets to foster local trade, and security outposts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all,’’ he said.

These infrastructure, according to him, represent not just physical structures but a beacon of hope, restoration, and resilience for the people of the state.

“Beyond establishing these centres, my administration has taken additional steps to restore livelihoods affected by insurgency.

“Each of the 461 households from eighteen communities in the Ngarannam area, who have been victims of Boko Haram insurgency, will receive pairs of bull and heifer, goats, and a humanitarian relief package consisting of essential food and non-food items.

“This support is not merely a gesture but a solid investment in the livelihoods of our citizens and a vital step in their journey towards self-sufficiency and dignity,’” Zulum said.

Experts say the effective application of the business principles as outlined by Jega will go a long way towards the realisation of the potential inherent in Zulum’s ambitious livestock business outlay.

(NANFeatures)

Citrus farmers in Benue state are facing severe post-harvest losses.

These losses are primarily caused by inadequate storage facilities, poor transportation networks, and limited access to processing plants.

These challenges have undermined their efforts to maximise production and profitability.

Benue, often called the ‘Food Basket of the Nation’, is a major producer of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

However, in spite of its agricultural prominence, farmers lament that much of their hard work goes to waste.

A large portion of their harvest rots before it reaches the market.

For example, Mrs Esther Tor, a citrus farmer from Gboko, revealed that over 60 per cent of her annual produce is lost.

“We put in so much effort to cultivate and harvest these fruits, but without proper storage or buyers, they just rot in heaps,” she said.

Similarly, Mr James Afia from Ushongo highlighted transportation challenges as a major contributor to their woes.

“Many of us rely on rural roads that become nearly blocked during the rainy season. Trucks frequently break down, leaving the fruits stranded and spoiled,” he explained.

Moreover, local farmers attribute their struggles to insufficient investment in agro-processing industries and limited access to credit facilities.

They also stress the absence of cold storage systems and modern preservation technologies that could extend the shelf life of their produce.

Noting the urgency of the situation, Mr Vincent Atim, another citrus farmer, stressed the need for immediate government intervention.

“We urge both the federal and state governments to subsidise storage facilities, provide modern drying and juicing equipment, and rehabilitate rural roads,” he said.

Atim further warned, “If urgent action is not taken, Benue’s citrus farmers may be forced out of business, threatening livelihoods and the state’s position as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector”.

He added that the sight of rotten oranges across farms is a painful reminder of wasted potential and resources.

Post-Harvest Losses (PHLs) have impacted food security and economic stability across Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria.

In 2011, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimated that up to 37 per cent of food produced in the region is lost between production and consumption.

Specifically, cereal losses were estimated at 20.5 per cent, with post-harvest handling and storage losses around 8 per cent.

In Nigeria, post-harvest losses are a major concern, particularly for staple crops like maize and grain legumes.

Comparatively, while Nigeria faces substantial post-harvest challenges, the issue is pervasive across many African nations.

Also, the African Postharvest Losses Information System (APHLIS) reports that post-harvest grain losses in Sub-Saharan Africa range from 10 to 20 per cent, depending on the country and crop.

Many stakeholders assert that addressing these losses requires improving storage, transportation, and handling practices.

These measures, they argue, are vital to reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing food security across the continent.

According to the FAO, post-harvest losses of citrus fruits in Benue were as high as 40 per cent in 2019.

The organisation attributed these losses to several factors, including inadequate storage facilities, poor handling practices, and insufficient market access.

The FAO further noted that farmers face significant challenges in accessing markets, which often leads to a build-up of unsold produce and increased losses.

In response to these challenges, agriculture expert Mr Edwin Asue advised the Benue State Government to introduce initiatives to address post-harvest losses.

He proposed establishing citrus processing plants in the state, ideally one in each of the three Senatorial districts.

“These processing plants would provide a ready market for farmers and significantly reduce losses,” he noted.

Additionally, Asue suggested that the government train and support farmers on best practices for handling and storage.

He recommended partnerships with local organisations to facilitate these trainings.

Furthermore, he emphasised the need to provide improved packaging materials to citrus farmers, which can reduce damage and spoilage during transportation and storage.

Asue also advocated for the use of technology, such as mobile apps and digital platforms, to connect farmers with buyers and provide real-time market information.

“Online marketplaces should be established to reduce the role of intermediaries and increase farmers’ earnings,” he said.

In addition to these recommendations, another agriculture expert, Mr Moses Angwe, emphasised the need for more concerted efforts to tackle post-harvest losses.

To address these gaps, Angwe urged the government to provide citrus farmers with access to finance, enabling them to invest in improved storage facilities, handling practices, and packaging materials.

He also called for the establishment of more markets and improved access to existing ones, which would help farmers sell their produce more easily and reduce losses.

Furthermore, Angwe stressed the importance of value addition activities.

“Encouraging farmers to engage in activities such as juicing, jam-making, and drying can increase their earnings and minimise losses.

“Reducing post-harvest losses requires a multi-faceted approach involving technology, training, and infrastructure development.

“By working together, the government, farmers, and other stakeholders can unlock the full potential of the citrus sector and improve farmers’ livelihoods,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr James Toryila, a supporter of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, stated that the government is addressing the issue by attracting private sector investment into the agricultural value chain.

“The government is engaging stakeholders to build processing plants and create market linkages that will help farmers reduce post-harvest losses,” Toryila stated. (NANFeatures)

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

Cross River State, nestled in Nigeria’s South-South region, known as the “People’s Paradise,” faces a major health challenge: ensuring proper vaccination coverage for its population, particularly its children. Despite the availability of essential vaccines like the Pentavalent vaccine, Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), and measles vaccine, stockouts, delays, and infrastructure issues continue to disrupt immunisation efforts in the state.

Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu, the Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA), elaborated on the extent of these issues.“The persistent challenges we face hinder our ability to meet the immunisation needs of our communities,” Dr. Otu remarked during a recent media engagement. Cross River State’s immunisation coverage is dismal, with statistics revealing that only 21% of children aged 12 to 23 months in the state are fully vaccinated. This presents a glaring gap in the efforts to protect children from preventable diseases and underscores the urgent need for intervention in the state’s primary healthcare system.One of the critical barriers to immunisation is the shortage of vaccines. Despite receiving government and international aid, primary healthcare centres in the state are often left with insufficient vaccine stock to meet the growing needs of the population. This has created a situation where children miss out on life-saving vaccines, putting them at risk for diseases like polio, measles, and pneumonia.Dr. Otu explained the challenges faced in accessing immunisation services, especially in rural areas. “Many families in rural areas are unaware of the importance of vaccination, while others cannot access health services due to distance, poor roads, and inadequate facilities,” she said.In response to these challenges, UNICEF has stepped in to help ease the strain on healthcare services in Cross River. UNICEF has provided solar-powered refrigerators and lighting systems to several primary healthcare centres, enabling better storage conditions for vaccines, especially in areas with unreliable electricity. Martin Dohlsten, UNICEF’s Health Manager, emphasized the significance of these initiatives, noting that they are part of the agency’s efforts to meet the targets of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2, which aims to reduce under-five mortality rates from 1.8% to 16.5% annually by 2030.Additionally, UNICEF has played a pivotal role in improving the state’s oxygen supply by establishing a Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant in Calabar. Before this, respiratory issues, particularly in newborns, were a leading cause of mortality in the region. The introduction of this oxygen plant has significantly improved the availability of medical oxygen, helping to address a critical gap in treating respiratory conditions and preventing unnecessary deaths among newborns.Despite these efforts, a tour of several primary healthcare centres—Ikot Offiong Ambai PHC, Atimbo East PHC in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, and Ekpo Abasi Primary Healthcare Centre in Calabar South Ward 2—revealed numerous obstacles that hinder effective healthcare delivery. These centres, along with the Sick Baby Unit at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, face critical challenges such as dilapidated infrastructure, flooding, and limited resources, all of which impede their ability to provide quality services.In rural areas, flooding during the rainy season renders many healthcare centres inaccessible, further exacerbating the health crisis. Dilapidated infrastructure and poor drainage systems discourage both healthcare workers and patients from utilizing the centres, leading to overcrowding at other facilities. Dr. Otu lamented the situation, saying, “If you come here during the rainy season, this place is always waterlogged due to poor drainage. Health workers and patients have to wear rubber boots just to access the facility. It’s unsafe and unsanitary.”The demand for healthcare services at these centres is also overwhelming. The Ikot Offiong Ambai PHC, for example, serves ten communities, making it difficult for one facility to meet the healthcare needs of such a large population. Atim Okon Jimmy, a nurse at the facility, explained, “On Thursdays, we can have up to fifty mothers bringing their babies for immunisation. And it’s not just immunisations—they come for treatments, tests, and other healthcare services as well.”The facility’s capacity to meet these needs is strained, and there is an urgent need for more healthcare centres to be built to serve the growing population. Dr. Otu assured that the state government is working to address this issue by allocating land for the construction of new primary healthcare centres as part of an ongoing initiative to revitalise healthcare services across the state.Maternal and child health is another major concern in Cross River. The state grapples with high maternal and infant mortality rates, particularly in rural areas. UNICEF’s recent report highlighted that over 30% of pregnant women in Nigeria do not attend primary health centres for antenatal care, despite the recommendation of 48 antenatal visits before delivery. Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate stands at 576 per 100,000 live births, one of the highest in the world. Furthermore, neonatal mortality is also alarmingly high, with many babies dying within the first week of birth due to complications such as asphyxia, infections, and prematurity.These figures paint a grim picture of healthcare access in rural areas, where 38% of women make at least four antenatal care visits, compared to 75% in urban areas. The slow uptake of antenatal care, especially among young, poor, rural women, is a major reason why babies don’t survive beyond the first day. With only 36% of women in rural areas giving birth in health facilities compared to 74% in urban areas, the disparity in maternal care is striking.To address this, Dr. Otu revealed that the state is collaborating with traditional birth attendants (TBAs) to bridge the gap in maternal healthcare. By training TBAs to recognize danger signs during deliveries and referring women to health facilities in a timely manner, the state aims to reduce maternal and child mortality rates.Another critical challenge in Cross River’s healthcare system is the shortage of trained healthcare workers. Limited funding has hindered efforts to provide adequate training for staff, which is necessary to ensure the delivery of high-quality care. “We need more resources to train our staff and expand our facilities to accommodate more patients,” said the Medical Director of one of the primary healthcare centres.Furthermore, essential medical equipment such as delivery couches, patient beds, and oxygen concentrators are in short supply. This scarcity exacerbates the already strained healthcare system, making it difficult to meet the needs of the population. The state government and healthcare partners such as UNICEF are working to address these issues, but much more is needed to ensure that the healthcare system is adequately equipped to serve the people.Dr. Otu expressed optimism for the future, calling on organisations like UNICEF to provide continued support to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Cross River State. She stressed the need for expanding solar energy solutions for cold storage facilities, which would reduce reliance on costly and environmentally harmful diesel generators. “With sustained support and strategic interventions from organisations like UNICEF, we can significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes in Cross River State,” she said.Despite the daunting challenges, the state remains committed to improving healthcare delivery for its residents. However, the journey ahead requires more investment, innovation, and partnerships. The work of healthcare organisations, the state government, and international partners will be crucial in addressing the healthcare challenges in Cross River, and there is hope that with continued collaboration, progress will be made.As Cross River works to navigate these hurdles, the commitment to improving healthcare delivery is evident. But a lot more work remains to be done to ensure that every child in the “People’s Paradise” state has access to the life-saving vaccines they need and that mothers receive the quality healthcare they deserve.