The Abuja Chapter of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN) has organised a quiz competition aimed at inspiring young Nigerians to embrace livestock agriculture as a career path and contribute to the nation’s food security.
The event, themed “Young Animal Scientist Secondary School Quiz Competition,” was held in Abuja and featured students from 15 secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory. It served as a platform to ignite curiosity and interest in animal science, while showcasing the potential of agriculture as a viable and innovative profession.
Speaking at the event, Mr. John Taiwo, Chairman of ASAN, Abuja Chapter, described animal science as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s agricultural development and one of the most impactful fields in ensuring sustainable food production.
He highlighted the diverse career opportunities available within the discipline, including roles such as animal nutritionists, livestock entrepreneurs, genetic and breeding experts, research scientists, and extension officers.
“The reality is that Nigeria, and indeed the world, needs you. As our population grows and the demand for nutritious food, especially protein from animals rises rapidly, who will lead this effort?” Taiwo asked. “You are the future guardians of our food security, the innovators who will make agriculture modern, cool, and highly technological.”
Represented by Dr. Oluchi Agubosi, Head of the Department of Animal Science, University of Abuja, Taiwo encouraged participants to take pride in agricultural professions, stressing that youth engagement is essential to the transformation of Nigeria’s food system.
Agubosi, in her remarks, said agriculture and animal science remain critical to achieving national food security, adding that professionals in the sector must stay proactive to ensure consistent production of food for the nation’s growing population.
She also commended the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development (FMLD) for its strategic efforts to address farmer–herder conflicts, noting that the ministry’s creation reflects a renewed commitment to improving livestock productivity and rural peace.
“Finding lasting solutions to the farmer-herder clashes is crucial. The introduction of ranching systems where cattle can be properly fed and managed will help reduce conflict and improve meat quality. Animal scientists play a vital role in making this a reality,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr. Victor Egbon, Director of the Department of Ruminants and Monogastric Development at the FMLD, said the government was implementing the Nigerian Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy, a comprehensive framework built around ten strategic pillars to improve livestock productivity and mitigate conflicts.
“One of the pillars focuses on peaceful co-existence between farmers and herders. Part of the plan is to rehabilitate abandoned grazing reserves and create structured environments for livestock rearing,” Egbon explained.
The Public Relations Officer of ASAN and Quiz Anchor, Dr. Azeezah Babalola, described the competition as a pre-conference programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of animal scientists. She said the initiative was designed to spark curiosity and showcase the exciting possibilities within livestock and agricultural science.
“The quiz was conceived to inspire young minds into agriculture and careers in animal science, which hold great prospects for Nigeria’s future,” Babalola said.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates and cash prizes to the winners. Government Secondary School, Gwagwalada emerged first with 65 points, receiving a cash prize of ₦125,000. School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada came second with 60 points, winning ₦100,000, while Government Secondary School, Dangara placed third with 55 points and received ₦75,000.
ASAN Abuja expressed its commitment to continuing such youth-focused initiatives to promote livestock education and encourage a new generation of professionals dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s agricultural and food systems.
