The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has raised concerns over the growing influx of cheaper foreign livestock products into Nigeria.
President Gabriel Idahosa explained that these imports are affecting local producers, reducing patronage, and causing several small agribusinesses to close down. He noted that lower production costs abroad and stronger foreign currencies make imported livestock more affordable than locally produced ones.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows that Nigeria imported livestock and related products worth N815.03 billion in the first half of 2025, while exports were only N51.57 billion. This has created a trade deficit of N763.47 billion, highlighting Nigeria’s increasing dependence on foreign supply to meet domestic and industrial demand.
Idahosa emphasized that although Nigeria has the technical knowledge and skills, insufficient investment continues to weaken the local livestock economy. He noted that structural inefficiencies contribute to low production levels, with average milk yield from local cows remaining below 1.5 litres per day. Nigeria currently produces only about 600,000 metric tonnes of milk annually, compared with a demand exceeding one million tonnes.
The LCCI president also pointed out that Nigeria spends over $1.5 billion annually on dairy imports, according to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development. He attributed this to poor investment, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, and inconsistent policies that constrain growth along the livestock value chain.
To address these challenges, Idahosa called on both government and private stakeholders to scale up investment in modern ranching, feed systems, cold-chain logistics, and breeding infrastructure. He also urged the setting of measurable targets, including reducing livestock imports by half within the next five years. His goal is not just import reduction but building export confidence, aiming for Nigeria to export livestock and dairy products across West Africa.
In conclusion, the LCCI’s warning underscores the urgent need for strategic investments and policy reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s livestock sector. By tackling structural weaknesses and promoting local production, the country can reduce its reliance on imports and enhance its competitive position in the regional market.
