The Kaduna State Government has allocated €10 million for the development of Arla Farm in Damau, located within the Kubau Local Government Area. This investment is part of the state’s initiative to modernise its livestock sector and attract private investment.
Governor Uba Sani announced the investment yesterday during the Arla-Dano Open Day held in Kubau.
Speaking on his behalf, the Secretary to the State Government, AbdulKadir Muazu, highlighted that the project is designed to revolutionise livestock production, bridge existing infrastructure gaps, and generate sustainable employment opportunities.
The facility is projected to produce between four and five million kilograms of milk annually once it reaches full capacity.
Governor Sani pointed out that since the farm’s inception, local milk production and job opportunities have surged, marking a significant achievement in the state’s agricultural transformation efforts.
He also mentioned that his administration has implemented robust institutional frameworks to ensure continued growth within the livestock sector.
“In the livestock subsector, Kaduna State has established the Kaduna State Livestock Regulatory Authority (KADLRA), the Kaduna State Livestock Transformation Company, and the Kaduna Ranch Development Company, all of which will work in concert,” he stated.
The governor expressed his enthusiasm for the launch of the Nigeria Dairy Centre of Excellence, the Sedentarization and Climate Change Resilience in Nigeria (SCREEN) Project, and the inauguration of a yoghurt factory.
He emphasised that these initiatives will provide smallholder farmers with modern technologies to enhance milk quality and productivity.
“These initiatives will empower our farmers, increase their income, create job opportunities for our youth, and deliver nutritious dairy products to our communities,” Sani remarked.
He commended the collaboration between the state government, the private sector, and development partners, asserting that such teamwork is vital for fostering sustainable growth within the dairy value chain.
“We are confident that the Damau Milk Farm Project will stimulate economic development and establish Kaduna as Nigeria’s premier dairy hub,” he added.
In addition, during the event, the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha, characterised Arla Farm as a significant outcome of the federal government’s local content and backward integration policies.
