To further boost livestock production in the country, the Federal Government through the world’s largest cattle rancher, JBJ Brazil, says it is set to establish a large-scale ranch in Niger State.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar, said this when he led a delegation of investors from JBS and JBJ Companies from Brazil to Minna, the Niger State capital.
The livestock Minister, Idi Mukhtar, disclosed that the visit by the investors is in continuation of realizing the commitment they had with the JBS Company on livestock production, adding that the JBJ Company is coming on board, in terms of establishing a large-scale Ranch.
He said Niger State was chosen because of its great potential, including bodies of water, and the commitment of the state government, especially with the allocation of 1.2 million hectares of land to the $2.5b livestock investment deal, agreed with JBS last year.
Mukhtar further revealed that the visit to Niger State by the investors from JBJ is to see some sites around, and determine where to establish the large-scale ranch, which is expected to cover 100,000 hectares of land with 100,000 bulls, to be brought in, with financial gains to be discussed further with the investors.
He added that the federal government will work with the state government to ensure it becomes self-sufficient in dairy products.
Governor Umar Bago, represented by his deputy, Yakubu Garba, expressed delight with the idea of establishing the first ranch in Niger State.
He noted that the development of livestock in Nigeria has become imperative based on its value chain and economic value.
Garba also assured that the livestock investment in Niger State will be adequately secured, noting that the desired objectives will be achieved.
Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie
