For the first time in nearly five decades, Nigeria has officially registered and released eight new pasture varieties to strengthen its livestock production. The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, through the National Animal Production Research Institution (NAPRI) in Shika, Zaria, led the effort, submitting the varieties for certification, a move hailed as a landmark in the country’s agricultural development.
This breakthrough was confirmed by the Ministry, which described the registration and release as the first of its kind in 48 years by any government agency. The new varieties, which include a mix of grasses and legumes, were presented to the National Committee on Naming, Registration and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds and Fisheries during a meeting held at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology in Ibadan from April 15 to 17, 2025.Federal Ministry of Livestock Development
The grass varieties include Brachiaria ruziziensis, Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass), Sorghum almum (Sudan grass), Andropogon gayanus (Gamba grass), Panicum mumbasa (Mumbasa grass), Pennisetum purpureum, and Napier grass. For legumes, the approved varieties include Mucuna pruriens and Lablab purpureus. These join Stylosanthes and Centrosema, two forage crops that had earlier been registered, bringing the total to ten officially certified pasture varieties in the country.
The Ministry hailed the development as a major shift for Nigeria’s pasture and fodder value chain, describing it as a game changer that will reshape the national seed system and drive transformation in the livestock sector. Officials expressed optimism that the registration would enhance investor confidence and attract new investments into feed, pasture, and fodder for both local consumption and exports.
According to the Ministry, the registration and certification of these pasture seeds will ensure their genetic purity, quality, and reliability. Certified seeds are expected to produce healthier forage with high germination rates, resistance to pests and weeds, and increased nutritional value, which will in turn improve livestock productivity.
Officials also emphasized that certified seeds meet specific standards of purity and vigour, reducing the risks of crop failure and misidentification. This step is seen as critical to preventing weed infestations, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring environmental protection. In addition, it protects the investments of farmers and livestock producers by guaranteeing that the seeds perform as claimed.
The move aligns with broader efforts by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to position Nigeria as a hub for livestock agriculture and to modernize the country’s food system by promoting sustainable practices in animal husbandry.
