FMLD SEEKS GREATER STAKEHOLDER SUPPORT FOR SUCCESSFUL HOSTING OF 9TH ALL AFRICAN CONFERENCE ON ANIMAL AGRICULTURE

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has called for stronger stakeholder collaboration, increased resource mobilization, and accelerated preparations ahead of the 9th All African Conference on Animal Agriculture (AACAA), scheduled to take place in Nigeria from August 9–13, 2026.

The call was made by the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during a review meeting with members of the conference Organizing Committee held on June 23, 2026, in Abuja.

The meeting provided an opportunity to assess the level of preparedness for the continental gathering and review progress made towards ensuring a successful hosting of the conference.

Commending the Organizing Committee for the milestones already achieved, the Minister particularly lauded the establishment of the conference website and other critical preparatory activities. He acknowledged the dedication and commitment demonstrated by committee members in organizing a major continental event within a limited timeframe and urged them to sustain the momentum.

Maiha noted that, significant efforts were ongoing in sponsorship mobilization, participant registration, logistics planning, and engagement with continental and international organizations associated with the conference. He emphasized the importance of delivering all aspects of the event efficiently and in line with global best practices.

Following a review of the committee's progress report, the Minister stressed the need to deepen collaboration with private-sector organizations, development partners, professional associations, and other critical stakeholders to secure additional support for the conference. He urged the committee to intensify engagement with prospective sponsors and strategic partners whose contributions would enhance the quality and impact of the event.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the conference to Nigeria and the African livestock sector, Maiha called for a strong demonstration of the country's readiness to host the prestigious continental gathering. He encouraged the committee to secure firm commitments from key stakeholders and decision-makers while ensuring that all outstanding issues are addressed promptly.

Earlier, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Grace Jokthan, reported that a substantial number of prospective participants had already registered for the conference. 

She noted the need for sustained advocacy, strategic communication, and engagement with stakeholders, institutions, and government agencies to encourage broader participation and support.
Prof. Jokthan stated that preparations were progressing steadily but emphasized the importance of continued efforts in fundraising, sponsorship mobilization, stakeholder engagement, participant registration, logistics coordination, and international partnerships to guarantee the successful hosting of the 9th AACAA.

Committee members also reviewed strategies aimed at increasing participation, strengthening communication with registered delegates, and finalizing logistics and conference arrangements to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.

 Discussions further focused on enhancing outreach efforts, maintaining regular engagement with participants, and expanding awareness to boost attendance.

As part of the agreed action points, 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 (AACAA) 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 animal agriculture and livestock development on the continent.

Participants at the meeting observed that while government support remains vital, the successful hosting of the conference should be driven by a broad-based partnership approach.

 Consequently, the committee was encouraged to continue pursuing support from private-sector organizations, development partners, professional associations, and other stakeholders within the livestock and agricultural sectors.

Henrietta Okokon 
Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations Department 
23rd June,  2026