The Gombe State Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with the Livestock Innovation Corporation, LIC, of New Zealand, marking a major step towards modernising the state’s livestock sector through innovation, technology and skills development.
The partnership aims to boost productivity, strengthen climate resilience and unlock new economic opportunities across the livestock value chain.
It follows a two-day technical working visit by a high-level Gombe State delegation, led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, to LIC’s innovation facilities in Hamilton, New Zealand.
During the visit, both parties held extensive discussions on transforming livestock production using data-driven systems and sustainable practices.
The MoU provides a framework for collaboration on modern livestock management technologies, climate-smart production systems and institutional capacity building through training and structured knowledge exchange.
The agreement also opens the door to joint research initiatives, including potential collaboration with Gombe State University, and explores opportunities in genetics and biotechnology.
“This includes the possible introduction of high-performance New Zealand dairy and beef genetics, subject to regulatory approvals.
“To ensure effective implementation, a Joint Project Team will be established to coordinate activities, develop detailed work plans and monitor progress.
“Engagements on the first day of the visit focused on aligning priorities around data-driven livestock management, sustainable production systems and long-term sector reforms. On the second day, the delegation toured LIC’s innovation farm, where the MoU was formally signed.”
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the partnership as a major milestone in Gombe State’s agricultural transformation agenda.
“The lessons from these engagements strengthen our determination to deploy innovation as a driver of sustainable growth. This MoU is a practical step towards improving productivity and resilience in our livestock sector, directly benefiting farmers and strengthening the state’s economy. It also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed drive to reposition the livestock sector through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development,” he said.
The initiative received strong federal backing from the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, who reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support and said the partnership reflected the clear policy direction of the Tinubu administration.
“This collaboration is fully in tune with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises technology, sustainability and real economic impact. We will continue to support initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for farmers and the national economy,” the minister said.
On behalf of LIC, Jason Schrier described the agreement as a model for effective international collaboration in livestock development.
“We are proud to host the Gombe State delegation and to work together towards a new future for livestock farming in Gombe State and Nigeria,” he said.