NEW DIGITAL MARKETPLACE AIMS TO TRANSFORM NIGERIA’S LIVESTOCK TRADE AND BOOST EXPORTS

A new digital marketplace platform has been launched to modernise Nigeria’s livestock sector, with the goal of enhancing trade efficiency, transparency, and export potential.

The platform connects farmers, traders, processors, and international buyers in a seamless online environment, allowing real-time pricing, quality certification, and logistics coordination. Developers say it addresses long-standing challenges such as information asymmetry, middlemen exploitation, and poor market access that have hampered the sector’s growth.

Stakeholders believe the initiative could significantly increase livestock exports by meeting international standards and improving traceability. Nigeria, with one of Africa’s largest livestock populations, has struggled to tap into global markets due to fragmented supply chains and disease control issues.

Experts welcomed the platform as a timely innovation that aligns with broader efforts to diversify the economy and promote agribusiness. They noted that digitisation could reduce post-harvest losses, attract investment, and create jobs along the value chain.

Government officials have pledged support through policy incentives and capacity-building programmes for farmers. The marketplace is expected to start with cattle, goats, and sheep before expanding to other agricultural commodities.

The development signals a shift towards technology-driven solutions in Nigeria’s traditional livestock economy.