The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to transform the Obudu Cattle Ranch into a major hub for livestock and dairy production, following a $2.5 billion investment commitment from Brazilian livestock investors.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this during a visit to the ranch, which is situated next to the renowned Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State. He highlighted the untapped potential of Nigeria’s livestock industry, valued at over N33 trillion, and emphasized that this investment will drive innovation and expansion in the sector.
According to Maiha, the Federal Government’s strategy includes modernizing livestock management systems, improving disease control measures, and expanding rural infrastructure to support livestock farming. He described Obudu Cattle Ranch as a “low-hanging fruit” for the country’s ambitious livestock transformation agenda, with the potential to become a major player in Nigeria’s beef and dairy industry.
He also stressed that the success of these initiatives will require strong partnerships between federal and state governments, traditional rulers, and pastoralist organizations to ensure that policies translate into tangible benefits for local communities and national economic growth.
Welcoming the development, Governor Bassey Otu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Odey, lauded the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalizing Obudu Cattle Ranch. He noted that the project presents a unique opportunity for economic transformation in Cross River State.
Governor Otu affirmed his administration’s dedication to collaborating with federal authorities and private investors to harness the state’s agricultural potential. He highlighted Obudu’s favorable climate, rich biodiversity, and expansive landmass as strategic advantages for large-scale livestock farming and dairy production.
The governor further emphasized the need to shift from subsistence farming to commercial-scale production, urging stakeholders to capitalize on global economic shifts to boost agricultural exports and attract agribusiness investments.
“Nigeria’s economic future depends on our ability to fully harness our agricultural and livestock resources. Large-scale investments in agriculture will enhance food security, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings,” Otu stated.