University of Abuja, CODARAN sign MoU to boost dairy production

NIGERIA – Commercial Dairy Ranchers Association of Nigeria (CODARAN) and University of Abuja have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance milk and fodder production and promote capacity building in the dairy sector.

The MoU, signed at the University of Abuja’s main campus, is expected to boost milk production, train professionals and students in dairy science, and enhance fodder production within the school environment.

The agreement also establishes a framework for regular training programmes for stakeholders in the dairy industry, advanced certification programmes for dairy scientists, hands-on experience, and professional development for dairy science students at the University of Abuja.

It further covers dairy farm and fodder production, and the development of farms for practical training and overall dairy industry growth.

The President of CODARAN, Muhammadu Abubakar, said the MoU outlines the framework for cooperation between CODARAN and the University of Abuja to implement a dairy skill development initiative tagged: CODARAN-UNIABUJA Dairy Skill Development Programme (CODUNDSKILL).

Abubakar noted that the programme would help both institutions achieve their shared objective of enhancing knowledge and skills through training and practical learning experiences.

“As dairy business owners and industry players, CODARAN members have continually faced the challenge of limited skilled manpower for both basic and advanced dairy operations. This is further compounded by the scarcity of academic institutions offering specialised programmes in dairy science and technology,” he stated.

Additionally, the University of Abuja noted that the partnership presents Nigeria with an opportunity to improve local milk production to meet rising demand.

Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Patricia Manko Lar, stated that the collaboration will enhance manpower training and expand the country’s human resource capacity for dairy production. The dairy industry is here to stay.

She said, “Milk is vital for human development, yet our country has long suffered a shortage. This partnership with academia offers a valuable opportunity to develop the skilled workforce needed in the industry. I envision this sector growing and reaching its full potential in Nigeria. We are making history today by joining forces to make dairy science attractive and impactful for future generations.”

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