Assessing Nigeria’s National Livestock Policy and Its Role in Enhancing Protein Security: A Qualitative Policy and Food-Security Assessment

Abstract

This study examines the interface between Nigeria’s national livestock policy and protein security, emphasising the capacity of livestock systems to meet the dietary protein needs of a growing population. Recognising persistent deficits in meat, dairy, and poultry consumption, the study explores historical trends, institutional arrangements, and policy interventions, including the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Livestock/Dairy Development Initiative and the National Dairy Policy. Employing a qualitative methodology, data were collected from primary sources, policy documents, government reports, and stakeholder interviews, and complemented by secondary literature, including NBS surveys, World Bank reports, and academic studies. The analysis reveals that despite policy ambitions, livestock productivity remains constrained by farmer-herder conflicts, climate-induced pasture degradation, inadequate feed supply, poor infrastructure, and institutional weaknesses, resulting in limited accessibility and affordability of animal-source protein. Regional disparities, particularly between northern and southern states, exacerbate protein insufficiency. The study concludes that livestock policies can contribute meaningfully to national protein security if implementation is strengthened through institutional coordination, modernisation of production systems, feed and pasture reforms, value chain integration, and expansion of extension services. Based on these findings, seven actionable recommendations are proposed, targeting federal and state governments, the Central Bank, private sector actors, and nutrition agencies, emphasising improved coordination, investment in infrastructure and technology, conflict mitigation, and nutrition education to ensure equitable access to animal protein across Nigeria. This research underscores the critical nexus between policy, livestock productivity, and nutritional outcomes, highlighting pathways for sustainable improvement in national protein security.