The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Livestock Development, has commissioned a Milk Collection Centre with a daily capacity of 2,000 litres at the Sawi Grazing Reserve in Adamami community, Shira Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The facility, initially rehabilitated and equipped by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development under its Livestock Directorate, will now be managed by L&Z Integrated Farms, a private investor.
Speaking during the inauguration, Director of Livestock Development, Tagwi James, said the site was chosen due to its significant daily milk deposits and its potential to boost local production. He noted that the initiative is part of the government’s renewed efforts to reduce milk imports and strengthen the domestic dairy sector.
James called on state governments to back the initiative by implementing livestock-related policies and programmes.
Managing Director of L&Z Integrated Farms, Muhammad Damakka Abubakar, said Nigeria spends about $1.5 billion annually on milk imports, a figure the government aims to reduce through improved milk aggregation and collection infrastructure. “Improving milk aggregation and collection infrastructure is essential to achieving self-sufficiency in dairy production,” Abubakar said.
Chairman of Shira Local Government Council, Alhaji Babangida Maliya, pledged to ensure the facility’s success through enhanced security and community engagement, urging pastoralists to supply milk and calling for educational opportunities for rural women and girls.
District Head of Disina, Abdullahi Mustapha, commended the Federal Government for the project, saying it would encourage pastoralist settlement and improve access to education for their children. He also lauded L&Z Integrated Farms for its role in the initiative.
Chairman of Miyetti Allah in Shira Local Government Area, Umar Muhammad Hassan, welcomed the project as a boost for the Fulani community’s economy and livelihoods. He pledged their commitment to supplying quality milk and appealed for the establishment of a nomadic school in the community.
