Governor Bago Seals $100 Million Deal With Saudi EXIM Bank to Export Niger State Livestock to Middle East

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has announced a landmark $100 million offtake agreement with the Saudi Export and Import Bank, paving the way for the large-scale supply of livestock from Nigeria to the Middle East.

The deal, which was disclosed on Saturday, is being hailed as one of the most ambitious agricultural export arrangements in recent years, with potential ripple effects across Nigeria’s economy.

According to the governor, the agreement is designed to unlock the economic potential of Niger State’s vast livestock resources, positioning the state as a hub for meat and dairy exports.

The arrangement with the Saudi EXIM Bank will see Niger State take the lead in meeting rising demand for livestock products in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern markets, while also creating thousands of jobs at home.

“This is a major breakthrough not only for Niger State but for Nigeria as a whole,” Governor Bago declared. “Our livestock sector has long been underutilized, but this agreement shows the world that Nigeria can compete globally and deliver at scale. We are building a sustainable future where our farmers and herders benefit directly from international trade.”

The deal comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to diversify its economy away from oil dependence. Agriculture, particularly livestock, has often been touted as a sector with huge export potential but little structural investment. With this $100 million offtake, Niger State is expected to establish new ranching facilities, modern abattoirs, and cold chain systems to ensure compliance with international export standards.

For many observers, this marks a bold step toward transforming the northern livestock economy into a global player. Niger State, with its vast grazing lands and position as one of Nigeria’s top cattle-producing regions, has long been regarded as a sleeping giant in agribusiness. The new partnership promises not just revenue for the state but also an avenue for curbing perennial clashes between farmers and herders by introducing modern livestock management practices.

Economic analysts have pointed out that the deal could significantly improve Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings at a time when the naira continues to face pressure. If properly implemented, the livestock exports could also open up new markets for other agricultural products from Nigeria, deepening trade relations with the Gulf states.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about sustainability, noting that previous attempts at large-scale livestock commercialization in Nigeria often faltered due to poor infrastructure, insecurity in rural areas, and lack of consistent policy support. There are also fears that unless the interests of local pastoralists are adequately protected, the project might exacerbate existing tensions in Niger State.

Despite these worries, the announcement has been met with optimism. Farmers’ groups and trade associations have praised Governor Bago for “thinking globally and acting locally.” Several stakeholders in the livestock value chain have already signaled readiness to key into the project, provided the government follows through with the necessary investment in roads, power, and veterinary services.

In recent months, Governor Bago has positioned himself as a reform-driven leader determined to put Niger State on the global map. His administration has championed initiatives in agriculture, infrastructure, and digital economy, with the livestock offtake agreement standing out as his boldest international breakthrough yet.

On social media, reactions have ranged from praise to cautious skepticism. Supporters hailed the governor for securing foreign investment at a time when Nigeria badly needs new revenue streams. Others, however, questioned whether the deal will translate into real benefits for ordinary Nigerians or simply enrich a few elites.

Still, the significance of a $100 million livestock export agreement cannot be overstated. For Niger State, it is a leap toward global recognition in agribusiness. For Nigeria, it is a reminder that the nation’s future prosperity may lie not in oil wells, but in farmlands and grazing fields.