On Thursday 30th April, 2026 at the GENEX Conference, powered by the URUS Group under the theme “Livestock Breeding and Genetics: Unlocking Genetic Potential, Financing the Future of Livestock in Nigeria,” Dr. Debo Akande, DBA, CMGR, FCMI, delivered a compelling vision for the transformation of Nigeria’s livestock sector.
He emphasized that the future of Agribusiness lies in a deliberate shift from traditional practices to science-driven systems. According to him, the Public-Private Development Partnership (PPDP) model remains the engine driving sustainable Agricultural growth, creating a bridge between government policy, private investment, and developmental outcomes.
Dr. Akande announced a landmark development: the establishment of a Livestock Transformation Centre at the ATC Fasola Industrial Hub in Oyo State within the next five months. This initiative, in collaboration with the URUS Group, represents a bold step toward redefining livestock production in the state and positioning Oyo as a national leader in modern Agribusiness.
He noted that URUS Group’s presence signals a long-term commitment to revolutionizing livestock breeding and genetics in Nigeria. “URUS has come to stay,” he declared, highlighting the company’s role in introducing cutting-edge genetic solutions and productivity systems.
A key takeaway from his address was the urgent need to shift focus from herd size to herd performance. Rather than measuring success by the number of animals, Dr. Akande urged stakeholders to prioritize productivity, efficiency, and quality output. This mindset shift, he explained, is critical to achieving global competitiveness.
He further stressed that Agricultural value is built on science, logic, and data, calling for increased adoption of data-driven decision-making and value addition strategies across the livestock value chain.
Citing industry progress, one participating company revealed that milk collection rose from 3.2 million liters in 2025 to 5.4 million liters in 2026, with Oyo State contributing a remarkable 55%, underscoring the state’s growing dominance in Nigeria’s dairy ecosystem.
Dr. Akande concluded with a call for broader thinking and strategic collaboration, urging stakeholders to embrace innovation, invest in genetics, and unlock the full economic potential of livestock in Nigeria.
Dr. Debo Akande, DBA, CMGR, FCMI
The Phenomenal Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Agribusiness and International Cooperation Development
Director General, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency OYSADA
E-Signed:
Written/Reported By
✍️ Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez
(IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE)
