Nigeria's Dairy Market Overview

Nigeria, with its vast population and burgeoning economy, stands as a significant player in Africa's dairy market. The nation is actively working to reduce its $1.5 billion annual dependency on imported dairy products.

Volume of Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

Despite challenges such as infrastructure and technological limitations, Nigeria produces approximately 600,000 metric tons of milk annually. The country has around 20 million dairy cattle, predominantly managed by smallholder farmers using traditional practices.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Milk processing in Nigeria is developing, supported by small to medium-sized units with an estimated processing volume of about 390,000 metric tons per year. Cheese production remains limited, with only artisanal cheeses produced in minimal volumes.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The production of milk powder and whey in Nigeria is almost negligible, with most requirements met through imports. However, local production facilities are being prioritized in plans aiming for self-sufficiency.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Prominent dairy companies in Nigeria include FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Chi Limited, L&Z Integrated Farms, and Fan Milk PLC. These enterprises are essential in increasing domestic milk processing capabilities.

Dairy Farms

Notable dairy farms in the country include Shonga Farms, Nagari Integrated Dairy Farm, and Arla Dairy Farm. These farms are key in improving milk yields through enhanced farming practices and modern techniques.

Export and Import Data

Nigeria is not a major exporter of dairy products due to limited local production capacity. The country imports an estimated $1.5 billion of dairy products annually, primarily including milk powder, cheese, butter, and other processed goods.

Significant Dairy Market Events

Recent efforts to revitalize Nigeria's dairy industry encompass partnerships between the government and multinational companies to boost local milk production through backward integration programs. These initiatives focus on enhancing local supply chain systems and improving dairy farmer capacities. Additionally, increased investments in infrastructure aim to support cold chain and processing facilities, minimizing waste and improving local milk quality and quantity.

A noteworthy event includes Nigeria's partnership with Indonesia to enhance dairy production in Kebbi State through advanced livestock programs. Nestlé, in partnership with the Swiss Confederation, continues to upskill Nigerian youth through its Technical Training Program in Agbara.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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