Nigerian government to embrace technology for livestock reforms and dairy production

By Osasómé C.O

Earlier this week, the Nigerian government inaugurated the Presidential Committee on the Implementation of Livestock Reforms. Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced that, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda, the ministry will engage the “technology innovation ecosystem to explore ways to design and apply technological solutions in the livestock, dairy production, and other associated sectors.”

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Livestock production is crucial to Nigeria’s economy, offering employment opportunities, contributing to food security, and generating income for millions. However, traditional livestock management methods often lead to environmental degradation, resource depletion, and public health concerns. Additionally, issues such as herders-farmers conflicts and cattle rustling undermine the sector’s sustainability.

The government aims to adopt sustainable livestock management approaches. Minister Tijani emphasised, “Our belief is that with the strength of our innovation ecosystem, we will stimulate economic growth through increased agricultural productivity.”

Oluwole Hammondmay stated, “Technology can transform Nigeria’s livestock industry by improving productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. By leveraging innovative solutions, the technical, socioeconomic, and security problems in the livestock sector can be addressed, boosting overall productivity and competitiveness.”

Hammondmay rightly noted in The Republic that building a robust livestock industry starts with proper identity management and traceability. According to the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) project, animal identification and traceability (ID&T) can redefine livestock planning, management, and monitoring in Nigeria.

Dr Agu Collins Agu, the founder of Technology Development for Poverty Alleviation Initiative) TD4PAI IoT Hub, believes that the future of the entire agriculture sector is smart farming. The livestock and dairy production industry could benefit extensively from technology innovations that are already readily available locally, said Agu in Abuja.

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IT Edge News.Africa sums up the viewpoints of various experts in the field into 10 areas the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy could be looking at to transform Nigeria’s livestock industry through technology and innovation.

IT Edge News spoke with various experts in the field and these are some suggestions to transform Nigeria’s livestock industry through technology and innovation.

10 ways to transform Nigeria’s livestock industry through technology and innovation

1. Digital Identification and Tracking

• RFID Tags: Using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for livestock to track their movements, health status, and breeding history.
• Blockchain Technology: Implementing blockchain to create transparent and immutable records of livestock transactions, health records, and supply chain data.

2. Data Analytics and Predictive Modelling:

• Health Monitoring: Employing data analytics to monitor livestock health, predict disease outbreaks, and manage preventive measures. A significant of number of hubs in Kaduna, Jos, Lagos have worked extensively on this.
• Yield Prediction: Using predictive modelling to estimate dairy production levels and optimize feeding and breeding practices.

3. Smart Farming Solutions:

• IoT Devices: Utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) devices to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and feed levels, ensuring optimal living conditions for livestock. TD4PAI IoT has done extensive works in this realm
• Automated Feeding Systems: Implementing automated feeding systems that adjust feed based on real-time data, ensuring proper nutrition and reducing waste.

4. Mobile Applications:

• Veterinary Services: Developing mobile apps that provide farmers with access to veterinary services, health management tips, and market information. For instance, a number of startups in Jos, Plateau State have developed some mobile-based solutions seeking the attention of the Veterinary Institute in Vom, Plateau State.
• Farmer Education: Creating educational apps that offer training on best practices in livestock management and dairy production.

5. Genetic Improvement:

• Breeding Programs: Using genetic engineering and selective breeding programs to enhance the quality and productivity of livestock.
• DNA Testing: Implementing DNA testing to identify the best breeding pairs and improve disease resistance and milk production traits.

Other innovative steps the Nigerian government could leverage to significantly enhance the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of livestock management to contribute to food security and economic growth also include:

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6. Supply Chain Management:

• Cold Chain Technology: Adopting cold chain technology to ensure that dairy products are stored and transported under optimal conditions, reducing spoilage and maintaining quality.
• E-Marketplaces: Establishing online marketplaces to connect farmers with buyers, facilitating better prices and reducing the influence of middlemen.

7. Financial Inclusion:

• Digital Payment Systems: Providing digital payment solutions to ensure that farmers receive timely payments and have access to financial services such as loans and insurance.
• Microfinance Platforms: Leveraging technology to offer microloans and financial products tailored to the needs of livestock farmers.

8. Extension Services:

• Tele-extension Services: Using telecommunication technologies to offer extension services that provide farmers with real-time advice and support from agricultural experts.
• Knowledge Sharing Platforms: Creating online platforms where farmers can share experiences, challenges, and solutions.

9. Environmental Monitoring:

• Satellite Imagery: Utilizing satellite imagery to monitor grazing patterns, vegetation health, and water sources, ensuring sustainable use of resources.
• Drones: Deploying drones for aerial surveillance of large farms to monitor livestock, assess pasture conditions, and detect potential issues early.

10. Research and Development:

• Collaboration with Institutions: Partnering with research institutions to develop and deploy new technologies tailored to the specific needs of Nigerian livestock farmers.
• Innovation Hubs: Establishing innovation hubs focused on agricultural technology to foster the development of new tools and practices.