The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) has intensified efforts to ensure the successful hosting of the 9th All African Conference on Animal Agriculture (AACAA), calling for increased stakeholder collaboration, resource mobilization, and accelerated preparations ahead of the continental event scheduled for August 9–13, 2026, in Nigeria.
The call was made by the Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during a review meeting with members of the conference Organizing Committee in Abuja.
According to the he meeting assessed Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Henrietta Okokon, the level of preparedness for the conference and reviewed progress made toward hosting one of Africa's largest gatherings of livestock and animal agriculture stakeholders.
Maiha commended the Organizing Committee for achievements recorded so far, particularly the establishment of the conference website and other critical preparatory activities. He praised committee members for their commitment and dedication in organizing the event within a limited timeframe and urged them to sustain the momentum.
The minister noted that considerable efforts were ongoing in sponsorship mobilization, participant registration, logistics planning, and engagement with continental and international organizations associated with the conference. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all aspects of the event are delivered efficiently and in line with global best practices.
Following a review of the committee's progress report, Maiha emphasized the need for deeper collaboration with private-sector organizations, development partners, professional associations, and other key 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 broader African livestock industry, the minister called for a strong demonstration of the country's readiness to host the prestigious gathering. He also encouraged the committee to secure firm commitments from critical stakeholders and decision-makers while ensuring that outstanding issues are addressed promptly.
Earlier, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Grace Jokthan, disclosed that a significant number of prospective participants had already registered for the conference.
She, however, underscored the need for sustained advocacy, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement to encourage broader participation and support.
According to Jokthan, preparations are progressing steadily, but continued efforts are required in fundraising, sponsorship mobilization, participant registration, logistics coordination, stakeholder engagement, and international partnerships to guarantee a successful conference.
Committee members also reviewed strategies for increasing participation, strengthening communication with registered delegates, and finalizing logistics arrangements to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
Discussions further focused on expanding outreach efforts, maintaining regular engagement with participants, and increasing awareness of the conference across the continent.
At the end of the meeting, the committee was tasked with intensifying stakeholder engagement, accelerating fundraising activities, strengthening communication with continental and international partners, and concluding all outstanding preparations ahead of the event.
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 observed that while government support remains essential, the successful hosting of the conference will require a broad-based partnership approach involving private-sector organizations, development partners, professional associations, and other stakeholders within the livestock and agricultural sectors.
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