Arla Expands Dairy Operations in Nigeria with New Biosecurity Measures, Forage Trials, and Local Processing

In response to rising risks of transboundary animal diseases, Arla’s farm in Damau has implemented enhanced biosecurity protocols. All visitors and staff are now required to use personal protective equipment (PPE), including disposable boots and coveralls, and must pass through newly installed disinfection units. Additionally, Arla has expanded its vaccination program, covering FMD, LSDV, anthrax, BHV, IBR, BVD, and Blackleg to ensure animal health resilience.

As part of its long-term sustainability and feed security strategy, Arla has partnered with NAPRI, ILRI, SeedCo, and DLF Seeds to test more than 50 forage crop varieties. The goal is to identify climate-resilient, high-yielding species suited for silage production in northern Nigeria. Results from these agronomic trials are expected to guide the next phase of ration formulation for the herd later this year.

Arla is also seeing progress in its breeding program. Since the start of operations in 2023, the Damau farm has recorded the birth of 218 calves, with only 14 bulls, owing to the use of sexed semen from Viking Genetics. These bulls are now being integrated into local farming systems to enhance genetic performance in Nigerian herds.

Further supporting local economic development, Arla’s integrated dairy project has created over 30 jobs for Kaduna residents. The company is preparing to launch a new yogurt processing plant, which will generate additional employment in quality control, supply chain management, and logistics.

In line with these developments, Arla representatives met with Kaduna State Governor H.E. Senator Uba Sani and the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, exploring a potential public-private partnership to support local dairy farmers. The initiative aims to expand market access and build capacity for smallholder producers, aligning with Arla’s broader commitment to inclusive growth in the Nigerian dairy sector.