In a bold move to transform agriculture and empower a new generation of agritech innovators, the Nigerian government has unveiled its ambition to grow the country’s livestock industry from $32 billion to $74 billion by 2035.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, during the grand finale of the AYuTe Africa Challenge Nigeria 2025 held in Abuja. The event, organized by Heifer International, showcases groundbreaking agricultural solutions by young Nigerian entrepreneurs.
A National Strategy for Livestock Transformation
The minister revealed that the National Livestock Growth Strategy has just been approved to accelerate the modernization of Nigeria’s livestock sector, promising massive economic potential for investors, entrepreneurs, and smallholder farmers alike.
“This strategy will not only create wealth but also provide a pathway for youth involvement in agriculture, using innovation and technology to unlock new opportunities,” said Maiha. “We are committed to supporting young minds who are ready to lead this transformation.”
Heifer International Champions Youth-Driven Innovation
Dr. Lekan Tobe, Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, described the AYuTe Challenge as a game-changing platform that empowers youth-led agribusinesses with both funding and mentorship. This year’s competition drew over 1,000 applications, with the top five finalists selected to pitch their ideas.
“The AYuTe Africa Challenge continues to uncover brilliant ideas that harness technology to uplift smallholder farmers and address systemic agricultural challenges,” Dr. Tobe said.
In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain access to investment networks, business mentorship, and market linkages to accelerate the growth of their ventures.
Winners of AYuTe Africa Challenge Nigeria 2025
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Seyi Alabi (Crop2Cash) – Winner | $20,000
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Aisha Rilwanu Sidi (Grabb 247) – 1st Runner-Up | $12,000
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Deborah Oigocho (Erido Agro) – 2nd Runner-Up | $8,000
Collaborative Efforts for Food Security
In his goodwill message, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in achieving food security.
“Agriculture is no longer a profession for the rural poor. It is a high-potential, innovation-driven industry,” he said. “We commend Heifer International for its efforts and reaffirm our support for all initiatives that promote agricultural transformation.”
As Nigeria moves forward with its livestock development blueprint, the collaboration between government institutions, private sector players, and youth innovators marks a significant step toward building a resilient, food-secure future for the nation.
