The Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, NIAS says the sub-sector has the capacity of injecting about N13-25 trillion annually if well harnessed, especially with the application of technology and innovations.
This was made known to newsmen by the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, CEO, NIAS, Professor Eustace Iyayi, at the 9th ASAN-NIAS Annual Joint Meeting in Abuja with the theme “Improved Technology: A key strategy for enhanced livestock productivity and national economic development”,
The meeting highlights the possibility of deploying technology and innovation for improved animal production.
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Speaking on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Nigerian economy, the Imo State Deputy Governor, Placid Njoku maintained that Nigeria needs to tap into the huge potential of the animal subsector.
Experts attribute the challenges that have negatively impacted the industry as lack of funding, clear policies, incentives for the primary producers and other stakeholders in the value chains.
The joint meeting also featured the induction of 150 newly qualified animal scientists into the Institute.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)