The Federal Government has announced plans to convert about 123,000 hectares of grazing reserves in Katsina State into modern ranches and livestock support facilities, in a bold push to modernize Nigeria’s animal production system and expand halal meat exports.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, revealed the plan during a meeting with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday. The initiative, according to the minister, will serve as a model for sustainable livestock development and create new opportunities for farmers and investors across the agricultural value chain.
Maiha commended the Katsina State Government for its proactive investment in the livestock sector, citing the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development and the establishment of what he described as Nigeria’s largest goat-rearing farm with over 3,000 goats. He noted that the conversion of the grazing lands would enhance productivity, promote efficient livestock management, and attract global investment.
“We will work closely with the Katsina State government to develop modern ranches and livestock infrastructure that can boost productivity and generate jobs across the value chain,” Maiha said, adding that he would soon visit the state to assess key project sites and finalize implementation frameworks.
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Radda also unveiled plans to establish halal meat processing plants in partnership with private investors, targeting Middle Eastern markets. He emphasized that the initiative would position Katsina as the northern hub for halal meat production and export while driving employment and economic growth.
“Our goal is to make Katsina the northern hub for halal meat production and export. This will create jobs, attract investors, and grow the state’s economy,” Radda said.
The governor also sought Katsina’s inclusion in federal livestock programs and requested technical support for ranching, feed production, and infrastructure development.
Experts say the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader agricultural transformation agenda, aimed at reducing food imports, promoting sustainable livestock systems, and increasing the nation’s share in the global halal meat market, valued at over $1 trillion annually.
