Tinubu Pledges Dairy Revolution as Arla-Dano Showcases Nigeria’s Dairy Transformation
By Erewunmi Peace
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s livestock and dairy industry, pledging reforms aimed at boosting local milk production and reducing the country’s heavy dependence on imports.
Speaking during the Arla-Dano Nigeria Dairy Open Day held in Kaduna, the President emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and private investors to develop a sustainable dairy value chain. He said Nigeria spends over $1.5 billion annually on milk importation despite having vast livestock resources that can make the country self-sufficient.
The event, organized by Arla Foods, producers of the Dano milk brand, showcased progress in Nigeria’s growing dairy sector, including the establishment of a modern commercial dairy farm in Damau, Kaduna State. The farm currently produces fresh milk locally while training hundreds of smallholder farmers on best dairy practices.
While reports have circulated about a $2.5 billion investment in Nigeria’s livestock sector, official sources clarify that this figure refers broadly to ongoing national investments across meat processing and livestock value chains, not solely to Arla’s dairy operations.
The Federal Government recently launched initiatives under the Ministry of Livestock Development to attract foreign partnerships, improve animal breeding, and expand pasture and veterinary services nationwide.
Experts say that Arla’s partnership with local dairy farmers represents a step toward achieving food security, rural development, and economic diversification goals outlined in President Tinubu’s economic agenda.
“Nigeria has all it takes to become self-reliant in milk and meat production,” Tinubu stated. “We are creating policies that will make our farmers globally competitive and ensure every child in Nigeria can access locally produced milk.”
Arla Foods reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Nigeria, noting that its investment aligns with the government’s drive to revolutionize the livestock and dairy sectors.
