This newly forged partnership represents a significant stride in international agricultural cooperation, aiming to bolster Nigeria’s livestock sector by leveraging Brazil’s expertise in cattle production. The agreement focuses on knowledge and technology transfer, offering Nigerian students and professionals access to advanced training and practical skills in modern livestock management practices. This collaborative effort seeks to address a critical skills gap in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, ultimately contributing to enhanced food security and economic growth within the country.
The Memorandum of Understanding brings together several key players from both nations. Silagreen International Agro Development Limited, a Nigerian agricultural company, serves as the primary facilitator of this initiative. On the Brazilian side, the partnership includes the University of Zebu Breeders Association, a respected institution specializing in Zebu cattle breeding; the Educational Foundation for the Development of Agricultural Sciences, contributing expertise in agricultural education and research; and the Associated Colleges of UBERABA, providing academic resources and training facilities. ZEBUEMBRYO Company, a Brazilian company specializing in Zebu embryo production and transfer, plays a crucial role as Silagreen’s Brazilian partner, facilitating the connection and collaboration between the two countries.
The core objective of this international collaboration is to enhance Nigeria’s national food security through improvements in cattle production. The program will focus on equipping Nigerian undergraduates, graduates, and agricultural professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and improve livestock production. Through structured courses and practical training, participants will gain exposure to new technologies, modern practices, and best practices in cattle breeding, feeding, healthcare, and overall farm management. This skills development initiative is expected to have a cascading effect, impacting the entire livestock value chain and ultimately contributing to increased productivity and profitability in the sector.
The initiative directly addresses a critical deficiency in Nigeria’s livestock industry: the lack of field competence in ruminant livestock management. This skills gap has hindered the sector’s growth and potential, contributing to lower productivity and limiting the industry’s contribution to national food security. By providing access to advanced training and practical experience, the partnership aims to bridge this gap, empowering Nigerian livestock professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to implement modern practices and achieve higher levels of productivity. The program also aims to introduce new technologies and breeding techniques, potentially leading to improved breeds and increased efficiency in cattle production.
The timing of this agreement aligns strategically with the recent establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development in Nigeria. This new ministry underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing and strengthening the livestock sector. The collaboration with Brazilian institutions will provide valuable support to the ministry’s efforts by providing a ready pool of skilled professionals and access to cutting-edge technologies, facilitating the ministry’s mandate to develop and modernize the livestock industry. This synergistic effect promises to accelerate the sector’s growth and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall agricultural development goals.
Leaders within Silagreen International Agro Development Limited have emphasized the broader significance of the partnership and urged widespread participation. They highlight Brazil’s global leadership in beef production, making it an ideal partner for Nigeria’s aspirations to enhance its own livestock sector. The call extends to all levels of government – federal, state, and local – as well as private agricultural organizations, entities, and companies. By encouraging broad participation, Silagreen aims to maximize the impact of this knowledge and technology transfer opportunity, fostering a collaborative approach to developing Nigeria’s livestock industry and achieving sustainable agricultural growth for the nation. This collaborative spirit underscores the belief that a collective effort is essential for transforming the agricultural landscape and ensuring long-term food security for Nigeria.
