Kaduna State has launched a major livestock support programme, distributing equipment and inputs to 5,000 farmer cooperatives as part of a broader strategy to transform its agricultural sector and strengthen the northern Nigeria region’s livestock value chain.
Governor Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarebe, flagged off the intervention across all 23 Local Government Areas. The distribution includes 500 solar-powered freezers with panels, inverters, and batteries; 300 feed millers; 3,000 bags of poultry feed; and 200,000 day-old chicks.
The Governor stated the initiative aims to position Kaduna as a centre of innovation, productivity, and inclusive growth in agriculture. “The objective is to build a Kaduna State that feeds itself, supports the nation and exports to the world,” he said. The assets are expected to boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, improve product quality, and expand income opportunities, particularly for women and youth who are integral to the state’s livestock value chain.
The intervention targets farmers organised into cooperatives of ten members each. Governor Sani described it as part of deliberate investments to strengthen agricultural value chains, expand access to modern technology, and empower farmers. This follows significant prior milestones in livestock development, including the rehabilitation of abattoirs and slaughter slabs, construction of veterinary clinics and boreholes in pastoral communities, and the deployment of mobile veterinary teams.
Furthermore, state-led vaccination campaigns have protected over 850,000 cattle, 250,000 sheep and goats, 250,000 poultry, and 5,000 dogs from transboundary diseases. To enhance feed availability, the administration has also distributed 100 residue crushers and 50 fodder choppers to cooperatives and sedentary pastoralist groups, enabling the conversion of crop residues into livestock feed.
The comprehensive approach combines immediate input support with long-term infrastructural and healthcare investments, signalling Kaduna’s intent to drive systemic growth in its agricultural economy and solidify its role as a key player in northern Nigeria’s food security and export potential.
