HARNESSING THE PASTORAL SYSTEM OF THE NIGERIAN DAIRY INDUSTRY FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH- A SHORT COMMUNICATION

Abstract

The pastoral dairy production has a great potential that will enhance economic growth in Nigeria if well harnessed. The system is faced with challenges ranging from poor genetic potential of our local breeds and poor nutrition that impede better productivity. The dairy industry need to be improved through the use of better technologies like cross breeding our locally adaptable breed with high yielding exotic breeds like Holsein Fresian. Efforts should also be channelled towards planting and fertilizing our grazing areas with high yielding grasses and legumes for better productivity.