Arla boosts Nigeria’s dairy self-sufficiency with cooperatives, new supply chain initiatives

NIGERIA – Arla has intensified efforts to drive Nigeria toward dairy self-sufficiency by leveraging farmer cooperatives and optimizing its supply chain. 

As the largest dairy farm in West Africa, Arla Global Dairy Products Limited is also enhancing its partnership with the Kaduna State government and other key players to address the country’s dairy production deficit.

Nigeria currently spends US$1.5 billion annually on dairy imports to meet local demand, as domestic production falls short of the 1.6 billion liters consumed each year. 

Arla, drawing on its Pan-European supply chain expertise and cooperative farming culture, aims to transform milk production into a thriving business in Nigeria.

During an open day event at its Kaduna farm, Arla’s Managing Director, Peder Pederson, outlined the company’s long-term goal of building a sustainable dairy industry in partnership with local farmers and governments. 

He emphasized Arla’s ambition to support 1,000 small-scale farmers, helping them improve their livelihoods while contributing to the overall growth of Nigeria’s dairy sector.

The event also highlighted Arla’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. The company reaffirmed its commitment to environmentally responsible dairy farming by leveraging advanced technology to enhance production. 

Arla’s new yogurt factory, a crucial component of the local dairy value chain, was also featured as part of the company’s vision for the future of the industry.

Snorri Sigurdsson, Arla’s senior manager of Raw Milk Supply, explained that the ‘Arla-Damau Open Day’ was designed to share modern dairy manufacturing knowledge with local farmers, promoting the use of advanced technology and sustainable practices to strengthen Nigeria’s dairy value chain.

Kaduna State Deputy Governor Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe praised Arla’s significant contributions to the region’s dairy development. 

She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to continued collaboration with Arla and other investors in agricultural development. 

Dr. Balarabe also invited the international community to explore the investment opportunities in Kaduna, citing the state’s business-friendly environment and streamlined processes.

“Arla Farms’ investment strengthens our dairy sector, empowers local communities, and significantly contributes to the state’s economy,” she remarked, noting that Arla’s investment in Kaduna has exceeded N10 billion. 

Dr. Balarabe assured Arla Farms of the state government’s ongoing support in fostering a favorable investment climate, while commending the company’s efforts to enhance domestic milk production and address Nigeria’s food security challenges.

Previously, Arla Foods, under the Dano Brand, launched two new dairy products: Dano Cool Cow and Dano Full Cream Evaporated Milk.

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