Jigawa Seeks India’s Support to Boost Dairy Production

The Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the livestock and dairy sector through collaboration with India’s National Dairy Development Board (NDD

Governor Namadi made this known while receiving a delegation from the NDDB on a courtesy visit at the Government House in Dutse earlier on Wednesday.

The governor explained that the visit was a follow-up to discussions held during his official trip to India last year, where the possibility of cooperation to develop Jigawa’s livestock sector, particularly dairy production, was first explored.

According to the governor, the meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange ideas on how Jigawa State can learn from India’s extensive experience in developing its dairy industry.

He noted that India currently ranks as the world’s largest producer of milk, a feat achieved through years of consistent investment, strong farmer cooperatives, continuous research, and an effective system that links milk producers with processing facilities and markets.

Governor Namadi said there are valuable lessons in India’s dairy development journey that can be adapted to strengthen Jigawa State’s dairy sector and create sustainable economic opportunities for farmers and pastoral communities across the state.

He pointed out that milk yield from many cattle in the state remains very low, sometimes less than a litre per cow, a situation he attributed to limited breeding programmes, inadequate veterinary support, and insufficient extension services for livestock farmers.

The governor emphasized that the state government is determined to reverse the trend by working closely with the NDDB to improve livestock genetics, expand veterinary and extension services, and establish a functional dairy value chain that will benefit local producers.

Governor Namadi expressed optimism that the partnership with the Indian dairy agency will enable the state to harness its vast livestock potential, improve productivity, and create new income opportunities for farmers and pastoral communities throughout Jigawa State.