The Federal Government has said that the low consumption of milk in the country is disturbing.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, stated this on Saturday at the activities marking the 2025 World Milk Day in Abuja.
World Milk Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001 and is celebrated annually on June 1st to recognise the importance of milk as a global food and highlight the dairy sector’s impact on sustainable agriculture, economic development and global health.
‘Nigeria consumes approximately 1.7 million metric tonnes of milk annually, yet we produce only about 600,000 metric tonnes locally, covering just 35 percent of national demand.
‘The remaining 65 percent, worth over $1.5 billion is imported, mainly in powdered form. This dependence weakens our economy, drains foreign reserves, and limits local industry growth,’ the minister said.
Alhaji Maiha said the ‘low rate of milk consumption among Nigerians is worrisome.’
He noted that while the ‘World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual intake of 10 liters per person, Nigeria’s average stands at a mere 8.7 litres, far below the African average of 40 litres.’
Our indigenous cattle breeds, primarily managed by pastoralists, yield an average of 1-2 litres of milk per day, compared to purebred or exotic breeds like Friesians or Jerseys which can produce more than 20-30 litres daily under proper management.
‘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 litres of milk annually. These are examples Nigeria can emulate with focus and commitment,’ he added.
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