In a bold move to revamp Nigeria’s livestock sector and empower underserved populations, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has announced the recruitment of 37,000 youth and women across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The effort forms part of the Presidential Initiative on Youth and Women in Livestock Development.
Speaking at a strategic workshop, the Minister emphasized that the initiative is designed not just to create jobs but to transform the livestock value chain into a major engine for economic growth. By engaging thousands of young people and women in commercial livestock production, the programme aims to address unemployment, promote inclusive economic participation, and boost national food security.
The recruitment drive is expected to cover various aspects of livestock production—including animal husbandry, processing, packaging, and marketing—ensuring that beneficiaries are equipped with practical skills, resources, and support systems to succeed. It also signals the federal government’s commitment to building a more productive, competitive, and sustainable livestock industry.
Officials noted that the initiative would attract investments into rural communities, stimulate small and medium-scale enterprises, and enhance the country’s capacity to meet both local consumption and export demands. Training, funding, and technical assistance will be provided to participants to help them establish viable businesses in the sector.
Stakeholders at the workshop hailed the initiative as a long-overdue intervention that has the potential to unlock Nigeria’s untapped livestock economy while providing economic lifelines to thousands of citizens, especially in rural areas.
