Nigeria partners Denmark to boost dairy sector capacity, job creation
BY TEMITOPE ADEBAYO
Nigeria is set to strengthen its dairy industry with the support of Denmark in a bid to increase local production capacity and generate jobs across the livestock value chain.
A high-powered Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukthar Maiha, recently visited Denmark to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at transforming Nigeria’s dairy landscape. The visit, facilitated by the Danish Embassy and Arla Foods, involved key representatives from Kaduna, Kogi, and Benue states, as well as the Presidency.
The delegation included Kaduna State Commissioner of Agriculture, Mr. Murtala Dabo; the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Livestock Development, Hon. Abolaji Abiola-Ajimobi; Kogi State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin; and Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe of Benue’s Livestock Development Bureau.
During the tour, the Nigerian officials engaged with top Danish agricultural and veterinary stakeholders, including the Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. They visited state-of-the-art dairy and agricultural facilities to observe Denmark’s globally recognised practices in dairy production, regulation, and animal welfare.
READ ALSO: Samson Siasia to Lead Jogging, Walk Initiative at SYDA Lounge MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja
The exchange focused on how to adapt Denmark’s successful models to Nigeria’s context—particularly in areas of scalable dairy operations, regulatory policy, and sustainable livestock practices.
Managing Director of Arla Foods Nigeria, Mr. Peder Pedersen, underscored the significance of the visit, noting that: “This kind of collaboration is crucial for transferring knowledge, inspiring innovation, and driving long-term growth in Nigeria’s dairy sector.”
Alhaji Idi Mukthar Maiha described the visit as a turning point. “It was truly inspirational,” he said. “I am now more confident that Nigeria has what it takes to build a modern, thriving dairy industry. What we’ve seen here proves that with commitment, we can do it.”
The partnership marks a renewed push by Nigeria to transform its livestock sector through strategic international alliances and sustainable development models.
