Nigeria Turns to Danish Cows in Bold Move to Reduce $1.5 Billion Milk Import Bill

Nigeria has launched a bold initiative to reduce its $1.5 billion annual milk import bill by importing high-yield dairy cattle from Denmark, aiming to double domestic milk production within five years.

Despite possessing over 20 million cattle, Nigeria's annual milk output stands at approximately 700,000 tonnes, falling short of the 1.6 million tonnes consumed domestically. This shortfall has led to the importation of about 60% of the country's milk supply. To address this, the government is introducing high-yielding dairy breeds, such as Danish heifers, to increase local milk production.

One local Nigerian farm has already imported over 200 Danish cows, with the intention of increasing cow breeding through a intense program.

The government has also launched a national animal genetic resources strategy, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization, to support these efforts. Livestock Minister Idi Maiha highlighted that Nigeria's vast livestock population, including over 20.9 million cattle, 60 million sheep, and 1.4 million goats, provides a strong foundation for achieving these ambitious goals.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance food security, reduce reliance on imports, and stimulate economic growth within Nigeria's agricultural sector.

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