The Federal Government has unveiled plans to transform the Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River State into a major hub for livestock and dairy production in Nigeria. Governor Bassey Otu expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Peter Odey, during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, on Wednesday, emphasized that Obudu’s favorable climate, rich biodiversity, and expansive landmass made it ideal for large-scale livestock farming and dairy production.
Minister Maiha acknowledged Nigeria’s livestock industry, valued at N33 trillion, but lamented its underutilization. He outlined the Federal Government’s strategy to modernize the sector, with Obudu Cattle Ranch playing a central role in the ambitious livestock transformation agenda.
Describing Obudu as a “low-hanging fruit” for development, the minister revealed that Nigeria had secured a $2.5 billion investment commitment from Brazilian investors to accelerate innovation and expansion in the livestock sector. He stressed the importance of robust partnerships between federal and state governments, traditional rulers, and pastoralist organizations to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Governor Otu, in response, welcomed the transformation plan, noting that the revitalization of Obudu Ranch aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed focus on agriculture and livestock development. He affirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with federal authorities and private investors to unlock Cross River State’s agricultural potential.
“With global economic shifts, Nigeria has an opportunity to expand its agricultural exports and attract agribusiness investments,” Otu stated. He urged stakeholders to embrace large-scale commercial agriculture to drive economic growth beyond subsistence farming.
“Nigeria’s economic future depends on our ability to fully harness our agricultural and livestock resources. Large-scale investments in agriculture will enhance food security, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings,” he added.
Reaffirming Cross River State’s commitment to agricultural expansion, Otu pointed to the state’s thriving cocoa sector as a model for strategic investment in agriculture.
