Nestlé Strengthens Local Dairy Sector with Cutting-Edge Demonstration Farm in Paikon Kore
Abuja, Nigeria – Nestlé Nigeria has taken a major step in advancing the country’s dairy sector with the launch of its state-of-the-art Dairy Demonstration Farm in Paikon Kore. This initiative, part of the Nestlé Nigeria Livestock Development Project (NLDP) launched in 2021, aims to revolutionize local dairy production by improving milk yield, enhancing cattle nutrition, and supporting rural communities.
The NLDP is structured around three core pillars: Better Milk, Better Feed (Fodder), and Resilient Communities. Developed in collaboration with the Federal Capital Territory Administration, CBi Innovations Limited (CBiIL), and 2Scale, this initiative underscores Nestlé’s commitment to backward integration and sustainable dairy development.
Boosting Productivity: From 1 Liter to Over 10 Liters Per Cow
The Nestlé Dairy Demonstration Farm serves as a practical model for implementing best dairy farming practices. By utilizing innovative breeding programs, the farm aims to increase the daily milk yield of local cattle breeds from an average of 1 liter per cow to over 10 liters. The project also focuses on herd health, nutrition, and hydration to drive sustainable dairy transformation in Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the company’s long-term investment in local dairy farmers.
“Since 2019, Nestlé Nigeria has invested over ₦1.8 billion to improve the livelihoods of pastoralists around Paikon Kore and Kachia grazing reserves. The results have been remarkable, with milk producers in our program seeing their household income rise from ₦70,000 in 2021 to ₦250,000 in 2024. This progress is driven by enhanced dairy practices and improved infrastructure within these communities.”
Record-Breaking Growth in Local Dairy Collection
Since launching the NLDP, Nestlé has achieved a remarkable increase in milk collection, scaling up from 200 liters per day in 2021 to an average of 6,000 liters daily at its Milk Collection and Cooling Center. To date, the program has aggregated over 1 million liters of raw milk, benefiting approximately 3,000 milk producers across 83 established dairy cooperatives.
Industry Experts and Government Applaud the Initiative
Soji Apampa, CEO of CBi Innovations Limited, expressed excitement about the demonstration farm’s potential:
“This farm is more than just a project; it is a catalyst for change. By implementing sustainable farming practices, we aim to enhance animal welfare, protect the environment, and uplift our communities. Our goal is to make this farm a model of excellence and inspiration for the dairy industry.”
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In his remarks, Honorable Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, highlighted the farm’s alignment with national livestock development goals:
“Nestlé’s commitment to backward integration aligns with our vision for livestock development. By supporting local dairy farmers and modernizing farming techniques, this project will help boost domestic dairy supply, reduce import dependence, and strengthen Nigeria’s economy. The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development is fully committed to creating an enabling environment for such investments to thrive.”
Community Excitement and Sustainable Farming
Local leaders and farmers welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm. Sulaiman Ahmed, representing the Apex Union Leaders, noted:
“This demonstration farm will not only educate us about advanced dairy farming but also create access to crossbreeds, training, and business opportunities. It is a game-changer for our community.”
The 4-hectare facility at the Paikon Kore Grazing Reserve is equipped with cattle sheds, calf pens, maternity and sick bays, a holding area, a dip-tank, and an automated milking system. Sustainable features such as solar power and a biogas system for waste management further reinforce Nestlé’s commitment to eco-friendly farming.
Nestlé’s Long-Term Commitment to Dairy Sustainability
The Dairy Demonstration Farm is part of Nestlé’s Creating Shared Value (CSV) strategy, which integrates business growth with social impact. By fostering partnerships, empowering local farmers, and promoting sustainable dairy practices, Nestlé Nigeria continues to shape the future of the country’s dairy industry.
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