Arla Foods Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s dairy self-sufficiency with the launch of a new Yoghurt Factory and the Nigerian Dairy Centre of Excellence (NDCE) during its 2025 Open Day at the Integrated Arla-Dano Dairy Farm in Damau, Kaduna State.
Since operations began in 2023, the farm has expanded its herd from 215 to over 400 cows and established itself as a leading hub for knowledge transfer in modern dairy farming. It regularly hosts students, agricultural professionals and local farmers, strengthening Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable milk production.
The Open Day convened top government officials, development partners, diplomats, traditional leaders and industry stakeholders. Distinguished guests included the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dr. Abdulkadir Mu’azu Mayere, Secretary to the Kaduna State Government, representing Governor Uba Sani. Their presence highlighted the growing national commitment to local dairy development as a pathway to food security.
In his remarks, the Minister underscored the urgency of reducing Nigeria’s dependence on milk imports, which cost the country over $1.5 billion annually. He commended Arla Foods for aligning with national goals on livestock development, nutrition and economic diversification. “Arla’s investment in local milk production and farmer empowerment directly supports our mission to build a self-reliant dairy industry,” said Maiha.
Mayere reiterated Kaduna State’s support for private sector-driven agricultural transformation, noting that the Damau project contributes to local sourcing, job creation and improved nutrition. Arla Foods Nigeria’s Managing Director, Peder Pedersen, noted the company’s long term commitment to backward integration and sustainable growth. He thanked partners including the EU Delegation, Danish Mission, CODARAN and NAFDAC for their technical and regulatory support. “We are building a future where more fresh milk is produced and processed locally,” added Pedersen.
A key highlight was the commissioning of Arla’s new Yoghurt Factory, which will produce high-quality yoghurt using 100% fresh milk sourced directly from the Arla-Dano farm. The facility represents a major milestone in Arla’s mission to expand local dairy processing capacity and deliver nutritious, farm-fresh products to Nigerian consumers.
The launch of the Nigerian Dairy Centre of Excellence further solidifies Arla’s vision for farmer training, research, and improved dairy standards. The centre will equip farmers with best practices in animal nutrition, breeding, milk hygiene and sustainable farm management. Through its backward integration programme, Arla has already trained hundreds of local farmers, improving milk quality, productivity and market access.
The 2025 Open Day also featured exhibitions, technical demonstrations and interactive sessions on innovations such as feed optimisation, milk cooling technologies and waste-to-energy solutions, all aligned with Arla’s global sustainability goals. As Arla expands its footprint in Nigeria, the company remains committed to supporting rural livelihoods and strengthening the country’s dairy value chain by positioning Nigeria as a future leader in sustainable dairy production in Africa.
