Gombe Seals Landmark Partnership with New Zealand’s Livestock Innovation Corporation
Published by Alphapreesmedia
The Gombe State Government has taken a bold step toward transforming its livestock sector with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Livestock Innovation Corporation (LIC) of New Zealand. This partnership, announced on 3rd February 2026, marks a turning point in the state’s agricultural modernization agenda.
The agreement is designed to boost productivity, strengthen climate resilience, and unlock new economic opportunities across the livestock value chain. Under the MoU, Gombe State and LIC will collaborate on:
Modern data and technology systems for livestock management
Climate-smart and sustainable production practices
Capacity building through training and structured knowledge exchange
Joint research initiatives with Gombe State University
Exploration of genetics and biotechnology, including the possible introduction of high-performance New Zealand dairy and beef genetics (subject to regulatory approvals)
A Joint Project Team will be established to coordinate activities, develop detailed work plans, and monitor progress to ensure measurable outcomes.
The MoU followed a two-day technical working visit by a Gombe State delegation led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, to LIC’s innovation facilities in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Focused on aligning priorities around data-driven livestock management, sustainable production systems, and long-term sector reforms.
Featured an on-site tour of LIC’s innovation farm, culminating in the formal signing of the agreement.
Governor Yahaya described the collaboration as a “major milestone in Gombe State’s agricultural transformation agenda.” He emphasized that innovation will be the driver of sustainable growth, directly benefiting farmers and strengthening the state’s economy.
Federal support was underscored by Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, who noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “This collaboration is fully in tune with our national policy direction, emphasizing technology, sustainability, and real economic impact,” he said.
On behalf of LIC, Jason Schrier, International Dairy Development Manager, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a model for effective international collaboration. “We are proud to host the Gombe State delegation and to work together toward a new future for livestock farming in Gombe State and Nigeria,” he remarked.
This partnership positions Gombe State as a trailblazer in livestock modernization within Nigeria. By leveraging LIC’s global expertise in genetics, herd management, and advisory services, the state is set to:
Enhance farmer productivity and resilience
Strengthen institutional capacity
Drive sustainable agricultural reforms
Contribute to national food security and economic growth
Founded in 1909, LIC has built a reputation as a global leader in agricultural technology and herd improvement. Its collaboration with Gombe State signals a new era of innovation-driven livestock development in Nigeria. With strong federal backing and international technical expertise, this MoU is more than a policy declaration—it is a practical step toward delivering tangible benefits for farmers and the wider economy.
