Both parties agreed to deepen engagement, with plans for further feasibility studies aimed at developing concrete investment proposals.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified efforts to attract foreign investment into Nigeria’s livestock sector, as the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, hosted a delegation of international investors to explore opportunities in red meat production and export.

CBI News reports that the delegation, comprising representatives from Omrantech Trading Company of Saudi Arabia and Baba Frayo Investment Limited, met with the Minister in Abuja to discuss strategic partnerships, particularly in red meat offtake and the broader agricultural value chain.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s ambition to transform its livestock industry into a globally competitive sector, and noted that the industry is currently valued at over 32 billion dollars, with projections to reach 74 billion dollars within the next decade through targeted reforms and investments.

Maiha explained that the government’s strategy focuses on modernising key areas such as animal breeding, feed production, disease control, processing, and cold chain logistics.

He added that Nigeria’s large population and growing demand for protein position the country as both a strong domestic market and a viable export hub.

The Minister also pointed to Nigeria’s geographical advantage, especially its proximity to Gulf markets, which allows for shorter delivery timelines compared to traditional exporters, assuring investors of the government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment, including access to land and clear policies to support profitable operations.

In response, the leader of the delegation, Dr. Ali Fahd Ajouf, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential, describing the country as a strategic gateway for agricultural investment in Africa.