Nigeria Imports Danish Cows to Cut $1.5 Billion Milk Import Bill

 On June 1, 2025, the Federal Government launched a dairy self-sufficiency program, importing 5,000 Danish Holstein cows to reduce Nigeria’s $1.5 billion annual milk import expenditure. Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari, speaking at a pilot farm in Kaduna, said the cows, known for yielding 30 liters daily versus local breeds’ 5 liters, will boost domestic production by 20% by 2027.

The initiative, backed by a $200 million Danish partnership, includes 10 modern ranches in Kaduna, Plateau, and Oyo, equipped with automated milking systems. The government aims to produce 1.2 million liters monthly, targeting 30% of the 4 million-liter demand.

The program addresses Nigeria’s 70% reliance on imported milk, worsened by herder-farmer clashes that killed 2,000 in 2024. Training for 5,000 local herders and $50 million in subsidies for feed were announced, but critics highlight insecurity, with 40% of Kaduna’s grazing routes unsafe.

Dairy processors like FrieslandCampina expressed optimism, projecting 50,000 jobs, but smallholder farmers fear exclusion due to high costs. The government’s 2023 dairy policy faced delays, raising doubts about implementation, as only 2 of 10 planned ranches are operational. Success depends on scaling security and infrastructure, with 60% of rural farms lacking electricity.