FG Decries Low Milk Consumption in Nigeria
The Federal Government has raised concern over the low level of milk consumption in Nigeria, describing it as a worrying trend that threatens both public health and the economy.
Speaking during the 2025 World Milk Day celebration in Abuja on Saturday, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the country’s milk consumption and production levels are far below acceptable standards.
“The low rate of milk consumption among Nigerians is worrisome,” the minister said.
According to him, Nigeria consumes about 1.7 million metric tonnes of milk annually but produces only 600,000 metric tonnes locally—barely 35 percent of the national demand.
“The remaining 65 percent, worth over \$1.5 billion, is imported, mainly in powdered form. This dependence weakens our economy, drains foreign reserves, and limits local industry growth,” Alhaji Maiha lamented.
He further highlighted that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual intake of 10 litres of milk per person, but Nigeria’s average stands at just 8.7 litres—far below the African average of 40 litres.
Alhaji Maiha also pointed to challenges in livestock productivity, noting that Nigeria’s indigenous cattle breeds, mostly managed by pastoralists, yield just 1–2 litres of milk daily. This is a stark contrast to exotic breeds such as Friesians or Jerseys, which can produce up to 30 litres per day with proper care.
Drawing lessons from global examples, the minister said, “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.”
World Milk Day is commemorated every year on June 1st to highlight the nutritional value of milk and the dairy sector’s role in agriculture, economic growth, and global health. It was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001.
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