By Danjuma Attah, Gombe
Gombe State Government has taken a decisive step towards modernizing its livestock sector with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Livestock Innovation Corporation (LIC) of New Zealand.
The partnership is aimed at boosting productivity, strengthening climate resilience and unlocking new economic opportunities across the entire livestock value chain, says Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General Press Affairs, Government House Gombe, in a statement sent to our Correspondent in Gombe.
He said the MoU followed a two-day technical working visit by a high-level Gombe State delegation led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, to LIC’s innovation facilities in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on the development of modern data and technology systems for livestock management, the promotion of climate-smart and sustainable production practices, and the strengthening of institutional capacity through training and structured knowledge exchange.
The agreement also provides a framework for joint research initiatives, including potential partnerships with Gombe State University, and explores opportunities in genetics and biotechnology, such as the possible introduction of high-performance New Zealand dairy and beef genetics, subject to regulatory approvals.
Misilli also stated that, to ensure effective implementation and measurable outcomes, a Joint Project Team will be established to coordinate activities, develop detailed work plans and monitor progress.
The statement reads further: Engagements on the first day focused on aligning priorities around data-driven livestock management, sustainable production systems, and long-term sector reforms.
On the second day, the delegation undertook an on-site tour of LIC’s innovation farm, where the agreement was formally signed.
Shortly after signing the MoU, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the partnership as a major milestone in Gombe State’s agricultural transformation agenda.
He said, “The lessons from these engagements strengthens our determination to deploy innovation as a driver of sustainable growth”, adding that the MoU is a practical step toward improving productivity and resilience of the State’s livestock sector, directly benefiting farmers and strengthening the state’s economy.
“It is also in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed drive to reposition the livestock sector through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development,” Governor Inuwa pointed out.
The Gombe delegation received strong federal backing from the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, who stressed the Federal Government’s support for the initiative.
According to Mukhtar Maiha, the partnership reflects the clear policy direction of the Tinubu administration.
“This collaboration is fully in tune with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises technology, sustainability and real economic impact,” the Minister said.
“We will continue to support moves that go beyond policy declarations to deliver tangible benefits for farmers and the national economy.”
On behalf of the Livestock Innovation Corporation, Jason Schrier, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a model for effective international collaboration in livestock development.
“We are proud to host the Gombe State delegation and to work together towards a new future for livestock farming in Gombe State and Nigeria,” he said.
“I am happy that this MoU is bringing together LIC’s technical expertise and Gombe State’s strong leadership and clear reform agenda anchored by His Excellency.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya was accompanied by key officials, including the State Project Coordinator of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Prof. Usman Bello Abubakar and the Director-General, Research and Documentation, Ahmed Hussaini.
The LIC team was represented by Jason Schrier, International Dairy Development Manager, and Dr. Lorna McNaughton, Senior Scientist.
Founded in 1909, the Livestock Innovation Corporation is a global leader in agricultural technology and herd improvement, supporting dairy farmers worldwide through advanced genetics, herd management software, and specialised advisory services.
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