By Danjuma Amodu | February 11, 2027
Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has initiated talks with the European Union Dairy Coalition of the Willing to accelerate the growth of the country’s dairy sector. The engagement, held yesterday, March 10, 2026, in Abuja, aims to drive strategic investment and technical collaboration in the sector.
The EU Dairy Coalition, comprising Arla Foods, Danone, and FrieslandCampina, brings over four centuries of dairy production experience and a strong international presence. Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, welcomed the coalition, highlighting their expertise as a key opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s dairy industry and reduce reliance on imported milk.
Improving livestock genetics was identified as a critical factor in boosting dairy productivity. The Minister proposed establishing a breeding centre as an immediate priority, which would increase milk yields and enhance the productivity of Nigerian dairy herds.
Coordinator of the EU Dairy Coalition, Sanne Simmers, described the meeting as highly productive, with a strong alignment between government and private sector partners. The coalition is committed to increasing local milk production, focusing on improved cattle genetics and a stronger dairy value chain.
“The coalition aims to improve dairy productivity in Nigeria through better cattle genetics and collaboration with the Ministry. By combining global expertise with Nigeria’s vast potential, we can unlock sustainable growth in the sector,” Simmers said.
The partnership is expected to create opportunities for Nigerian dairy farmers, improve local milk quality, and reduce reliance on imports.
The Federal Government has assured the coalition of its commitment to creating a conducive investment environment in the dairy sector.
The Ministry of Livestock Development will work closely with the EU Dairy Coalition to identify areas for collaboration and develop a roadmap for implementing the partnership. The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to diversify the economy and promote agricultural development.
Nigeria’s dairy sector has been identified as a key area for growth, with the country’s large population and growing demand for dairy products presenting opportunities for investment and job creation. The partnership is expected to contribute to the country’s economic development and improve the lives of dairy farmers and consumers.
Both parties expressed optimism about the potential of the partnership to transform Nigeria’s dairy sector. The EU Dairy Coalition is expected to invest in the sector, support local farmers, and enhance the country’s dairy value chain.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to work together to drive growth and development in Nigeria’s dairy sector.
