Jigawa’s Maigatari Set To Become Livestock Hub With BCDA And Chinese Investment.
A transformative partnership has been announced to establish Maigatari, a border town in Jigawa State, Nigeria, as a pilot hub for livestock production and processing. The Jigawa State Government, in collaboration with the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) and Chinese investors from the Yangpu Global Corporation Forum, unveiled the initiative during a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi at the Government House in Dutse on Wednesday, 20 August 2025.
The ambitious project aims to position Maigatari as a leading centre for livestock production and processing in Nigeria, leveraging its strategic location along the Nigeria-Niger border, home to one of West Africa’s largest livestock markets. Dr George D A Kelly, Executive Secretary of the BCDA, highlighted Maigatari’s economic potential, noting its historical significance as a trans-shipment point along the ancient Trans-Saharan trade route. He revealed that the Chinese investors have secured funding from banks in China and are ready to commence work, focusing on both cattle production and advanced processing activities.
Governor Namadi expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing the livelihoods of border communities and boosting Jigawa’s economy. He emphasised the state’s investment-friendly policies, including a one-stop-shop investment promotion agency to streamline processes for investors. The governor also highlighted ongoing infrastructure developments, such as a proposed cargo airport in Dutse and a rail line project, which will enhance connectivity and support the livestock hub’s operations.
The initiative is expected to create numerous jobs, strengthen cross-border trade with neighbouring countries like Niger, and drive inclusive economic growth across Jigawa State. Maigatari’s Export Processing Zone, established to promote export-oriented activities, already hosts facilities such as warehouses, banking services, and a container terminal, making it an ideal location for this venture. The project aligns with Jigawa’s broader agricultural strategy, with livestock farming contributing 20% to the state’s agricultural GDP and the region boasting an estimated 3.06 million cattle, 5.6 million sheep, and 6.6 million goats.
Dr Kelly praised Governor Namadi’s visionary leadership, noting that the partnership could lead to the export of over 240,000 metric tonnes of cattle annually to China, significantly boosting Nigeria’s livestock sector. The BCDA’s commitment to developing over 3,000 border communities across 21 states underscores the project’s role in addressing socio-economic challenges in underserved areas.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the development, with community leaders expressing hope that the hub will revitalise Maigatari’s economy, which has faced challenges due to recent border tensions with Niger. The state government has pledged full support, ensuring the project’s success and its potential to transform Jigawa into a competitive trade hub in the region.
