The Federal Government has expressed concern with regard Nigerians not taking enough milk.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, voiced the government’s discontent at the ugly situation on Saturday at the activities marking the 2025 World Milk Day in Abuja.
“The low rate of milk consumption among Nigerians is worrisome.
“World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual intake of 10 liters per person, Nigeria’s average stands at a mere 8.7 litres, far below the African average of 40 litres.
“Our indigenous cattle breeds, primarily managed by pastoralists, yield an average of 1-2 litres of milk per day, compared to purebred or exotic breeds like Friesians or Jerseys which can produce more than 20-30 litres daily under proper management.
“India, the world’s largest milk producer, has achieved more than 200 million tonnes annually primarily from smallholder farmers through investments in animal health and breeding technologies. And closer home, South Africa processes over 3 billion litres of milk annually. These are examples Nigeria can emulate with focus and commitment,” the minister said.
World Milk Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001 and is celebrated annually on June 1st to recognise the importance of milk as a global food and highlight the dairy sector’s impact on sustainable agriculture, economic development and global health.
