The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has called for stronger stakeholder collaboration, increased resource mobilisation, and accelerated preparations ahead of the 9th All African Conference on Animal Agriculture (AACAA), scheduled to hold in Nigeria from August 9 to 13, 2026.
The call was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during a review meeting with members of the conference Organising Committee in Abuja.
The meeting assessed the level of preparedness for the continental conference and reviewed progress made towards ensuring Nigeria successfully hosts one of Africa’s largest gatherings on animal agriculture and livestock development.
Commending the Organising Committee for the milestones already achieved, Maiha praised the successful launch of the conference website and other key preparatory activities. He acknowledged the dedication demonstrated by committee members in organising the event within a limited timeframe and urged them to sustain the momentum.
The minister noted that significant progress had been recorded in sponsorship mobilisation, participant registration, logistics planning, and engagement with continental and international organisations associated with the conference.
He stressed the importance of delivering all aspects of the event in line with international best practices while ensuring efficient coordination.
Following a review of the committee’s progress report, Maiha called for deeper collaboration with private-sector organisations, development partners, professional associations, and other strategic stakeholders to secure additional support for the conference.
He urged the committee to intensify engagement with prospective sponsors and partners whose contributions would enhance the quality and overall impact of the event.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the conference to Nigeria and Africa’s livestock sector, the minister said the event presents an opportunity for the country to demonstrate its capacity to host major international conferences.
He encouraged the committee to secure firm commitments from key stakeholders and decision-makers while ensuring all outstanding issues are addressed promptly.
Earlier, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Prof. Grace Jokthan, reported that a substantial number of prospective participants had already registered for the conference.
She, however, emphasised the need for sustained advocacy, strategic communication, and broader engagement with stakeholders, institutions, and government agencies to increase participation and support.
According to Prof. Jokthan, preparations are progressing steadily, but continued efforts are required in fundraising, sponsorship mobilisation, stakeholder engagement, participant registration, logistics coordination, and international partnerships to guarantee the successful hosting of the conference.
Committee members also reviewed strategies to boost participation, strengthen communication with registered delegates, and finalise logistics and conference arrangements to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
Discussions further focused on expanding awareness campaigns, maintaining regular engagement with participants, and increasing outreach efforts to maximise attendance.
At the end of the meeting, the committee was tasked with intensifying stakeholder engagement, accelerating fundraising initiatives, strengthening communication with continental and international partners, and concluding all outstanding preparations ahead of the conference.
The 9th All African Conference on Animal Agriculture is expected to bring together policymakers, researchers, livestock industry experts, development partners, private-sector operators, and other stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to deliberate on critical issues shaping the future of animal agriculture and livestock development on the continent.
Participants at the meeting agreed that while government support remains essential, the successful hosting of the conference will depend on a broad-based partnership involving the private sector, development partners, professional associations, and other key stakeholders in the livestock and agricultural sectors.