In a major push to modernize and strengthen Nigeria’s livestock sector, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) convened a national multi-stakeholder workshop in Abuja on Thursday.
The event aimed to validate the National Livestock Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework and harmonize the country’s livestock baseline data, a move described by experts as key to evidence-based policy and investment planning.
Held at The Envoy Hotel, the workshop brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including federal and state officials, research institutions, academia, professional bodies, and development partners, all focused on creating a more competitive, accountable, and data-driven livestock sector.
Opening the workshop, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development highlighted the significance of the gathering, calling it a “pivotal moment in the evolution of Nigeria’s livestock industry.” He underscored that the time for policymaking based on assumptions or fragmented information is over. 
“Over the years, we have amassed considerable data—from the National Livestock Identification and Traceability System (NLITS) and Nigeria Animal Disease Information System (NADIS) to digital grazing reserve mapping, pastoral mobility tracking, laboratory surveillance, and numerous research outputs,” the Minister said. “Yet, much of this information remains isolated, limiting its value for coordinated national planning.”
He warned that fragmented data hampers policy formulation, weakens investment potential, and undermines strategic planning. “Harmonized livestock data is no longer optional; it is a national necessity. Without it, we cannot accurately assess the national herd, monitor disease outbreaks, develop bankable livestock projects, or attract investors,” he added.
The Minister further stressed that the M&E Framework under review is central to ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient delivery of the Ministry’s commitments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly regarding food security, job creation, revenue generation, and a stable livestock production environment.
“This workshop is about shaping the future, not merely reviewing documents,” he said. “We are charting a course for a livestock sector that is modern, resilient, financially attractive, and globally competitive.” 
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the workshop represents a new era of structured performance management anchored in accountability and national priorities.
She explained that the Ministry’s activities are now aligned with presidential directives, with objectives cascading into departmental and individual performance targets to ensure measurable outcomes.
“All ministries, departments, and agencies must fully integrate into the National Livestock M&E Framework,” she said. “Whether in animal health, production, research, traceability, extension services, planning, or grazing reserve management, all data and reporting must feed into a single, harmonized system.”
She cautioned that disjointed reporting reduces the effectiveness of planning and resource allocation, while integrated data strengthens decision-making, facilitates project evaluation, supports budget justification, and enhances investment readiness.
The workshop participants are expected to finalize a harmonized national livestock baseline and validate the M&E Framework, which will serve as the reference point for monitoring progress and measuring impact across Nigeria’s livestock sector.
The Ministry described the initiative as part of its ongoing drive to create a livestock sector where “data informs action, performance drives results, and results contribute to national development.”
LV