The Federal Government has voiced its concern over Nigeria’s low milk consumption, according to Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the Minister of Livestock Development.
He made this statement on Saturday during activities marking the 2025 World Milk Day in Abuja.
World Milk Day, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001, is celebrated annually on June 1st to highlight milk’s global importance and the dairy sector’s role in sustainable agriculture, economic development, and global health.
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Minister Maiha revealed that Nigeria consumes approximately 1.7 million metric tonnes of milk annually, but only produces about 600,000 metric tonnes locally, covering a mere 35 percent of national demand.
This means the remaining 65 percent, valued at over $1.5 billion, is imported, predominantly in powdered form.
The minister emphasized that this dependence “weakens our economy, drains foreign reserves, and limits local industry growth.”
Alhaji Maiha further noted that the “low rate of milk consumption among Nigerians is worrisome.”
He highlighted that while the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual intake of 10 liters per person, Nigeria’s average is a mere 8.7 liters, significantly below the African average of 40 liters.
He explained that Nigeria’s indigenous cattle breeds, primarily managed by pastoralists, yield only 1-2 liters of milk per day.
This contrasts sharply with purebred or exotic breeds like Friesians or Jerseys, which can produce over 20-30 liters daily under proper management.
Maiha pointed to successful examples, stating, “India, the world’s largest milk producer, has achieved more than 200 million tonnes annually primarily from smallholder farmers through investments in animal health and breeding technologies. And closer home, South Africa processes over 3 billion liters of milk annually. These are examples Nigeria can emulate with focus and commitment.”
Mr. Bugaje, from the National Board for Technical Education, also expressed worry over the underutilized solar potential in the country.
He called on state governments to take advantage of recent constitutional changes that allow states to generate and distribute electricity independently.
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