02/04/2026
FG Launches Climate Risk Financing to Protect Livestock Sector
The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a new climate risk financing initiative aimed at safeguarding the country’s livestock sector against the growing impact of climate change.
The programme, known as the Index-Based Livestock Insurance (IBLI), is designed to support pastoralists by providing financial protection during climate-related shocks such as drought.
Under the scheme, a total of ₦181.9 million has been disbursed this month to 3,642 livestock farmers across Adamawa, Bauchi, and Plateau States. The payouts were triggered by satellite-monitored drought alerts, marking a shift toward data-driven agricultural risk management.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the initiative as a key pillar in the government’s livestock reform strategy. According to him, the programme will not only cushion the effects of climate risks but also encourage investment in critical areas such as grazing reserves, feed systems, animal health, and processing infrastructure.
The initiative is also expected to improve access to financing for livestock farmers, reduce market volatility, and strengthen the sector’s resilience. It aligns with the broader agricultural and economic agenda of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Many experts have said that the move signals a growing commitment by the government to adopt innovative solutions in addressing climate challenges within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
