Federal Government and NIAS Announce Collaboration for 2026 Animal Agriculture Conference
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has officially pledged its support to collaborate with the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS) for the upcoming 9th edition of the Conference on Animal Agriculture. This significant event is scheduled to take place in Nigeria in 2026, marking a major milestone for the country's agricultural sector.
Minister Maiha Emphasizes High Expectations and Thorough Planning
During a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, welcomed a delegation from the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Prof. Udo Herbert, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NIAS. Minister Maiha highlighted that the conference will feature a series of technical lectures and exhibitions designed to showcase the latest innovations in animal agriculture. He called upon stakeholders from the private sector, financial institutions, and development partners to actively support the event, ensuring its success and impact.
Originally planned for 2025, the conference has been rescheduled to 2026 to allow for more comprehensive preparation. Minister Maiha stressed the importance of meeting the high expectations of the international community, stating, "The expectations of the international community for Nigeria as host are quite high, and we must ensure adequate preparation for a successful outing." He also confirmed that all state offices under the Ministry of Livestock Development will participate actively in the conference, demonstrating a unified national effort.
LOC Chairperson Outlines Conference Goals and Preparations
Prof. Grace Jokthan, Chairperson of the LOC, provided further details on the conference's objectives. She explained that the event will bring together experts, researchers, and stakeholders from across Africa to deliberate on key developments and best practices in animal agriculture and livestock production. The discussions are expected to focus on strategies for driving sustainable economic growth through improved livestock systems, addressing critical issues in the sector.
Prof. Jokthan revealed that preparations are already in full swing, covering essential aspects such as logistics, partnerships, and participant engagement strategies. She appealed to the ministry for necessary support and guidance, describing the conference as a flagship event for Africa's livestock sector. Additionally, she disclosed that the submission of conference papers and abstracts has commenced through the official conference website, with ongoing awareness campaigns on social media platforms aimed at boosting participation and engagement.
This collaboration between the Federal Government and NIAS underscores a concerted effort to advance animal agriculture in Nigeria and across the continent, positioning the country as a leader in livestock innovation and sustainable practices.
