Gombe State signs dairy breeding deal with New Zealand firm LIC

NIGERIA – Nigeria’s Gombe State has entered a formal partnership with New Zealand based Livestock Improvement Corporation (LLC) to support cattle breeding and dairy development as the country pushes to cut import reliance.

The Gombe State government confirmed that it signed a memorandum of understanding with Livestock Improvement Corporation, also known as LIC, on February 3.

The agreement followed a two day visit by a state delegation to LIC facilities in Hamilton, New Zealand, according to a statement published on the state government website.

The partnership focuses on improving cattle productivity in Gombe through better herd systems, skills training, and shared research work.

Focus on breeding and skills transfer

Under the agreement, both parties will work on setting up modern herd management systems across the state. The plan also supports climate aware livestock practices and direct training for local institutions and technical staff.

“The agreement also provides a framework for joint research initiatives, including possible partnerships with the University of Gombe,” the statement said. “It also explores opportunities in genetics and biotechnology, including the possible introduction of high performing New Zealand dairy and bovine genetic traits, subject to regulatory approvals.”

Officials say the cooperation will allow local farmers and institutions to benefit from New Zealand’s long standing experience in dairy farming and animal genetics.

LIC operates as one of the leading players in New Zealand’s dairy sector, which remains a major supplier to global markets.

Nigeria targets higher milk output

New Zealand ranks as the world’s largest dairy exporter, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization. Between 2021 and 2023, the country placed an average of 20.3 million tonnes of dairy products on international markets each year.

The Gombe agreement comes as Nigeria works to raise local milk supply. In June last year, the federal government announced plans to double national milk production to 1.4 million tonnes by 2030 with support from private firms and foreign partners.

As part of this effort, authorities held the first National Council for Livestock Development meeting on November 29 in Adamawa State. The meeting brought together state governments and dairy industry players to align policies, pool resources, and improve cooperation across the livestock sector.

Officials view state level partnerships such as the Gombe LIC deal as key steps toward meeting national dairy targets and supporting local producers.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.