UNIJOS Vice-Chancellor Commends Partnership Talks with U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Reaffirms Commitment to Food Security and Animal Health

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has praised the ongoing discussions between the University and the United States Livestock Genetics Export Incorporated (USLGE), describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening food security, advancing livestock production, and promoting agricultural research and innovation in Nigeria.

Professor Ishaya made the remarks while receiving the President and Chief Executive Officer of USLGE, Dr. Martins Sieber, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to his office at the Naraguta Campus of the University.

Expressing delight at the progress of the talks, the Vice-Chancellor commended the level of commitment shown by both parties, noting that the discussions were already yielding positive outcomes toward establishing a sustainable, mutually beneficial partnership. He described the collaboration as timely and strategic, particularly as Nigeria and other developing nations intensify efforts to achieve food sufficiency through modern and sustainable agricultural practices. He added that the University of Jos has the facilities, expertise, and commitment required for this collaboration to succeed.

He emphasized that the University’s TETFund Centre of Excellence in Food Security possesses the technical capacity to partner effectively with an internationally recognized organization such as USLGE, one that plays a vital role in addressing global food insecurity through livestock improvement and innovation.

Professor Ishaya reaffirmed the University’s dedication to research and innovation that align with national and global priorities in food production and livestock development. He stressed that the proposed partnership with USLGE would strengthen the institution’s research profile, promote knowledge exchange, and open new opportunities for capacity building in animal science and agricultural technology.

Highlighting the link between animal and human health, the Vice-Chancellor noted that “humans can only be healthy when the animals in their environment are healthy,” underscoring the importance of a One Health approach to sustainability. He also pledged the University’s commitment to ensuring the collaboration is properly implemented, accountable, and impactful once finalized.

Earlier, Dr. Martins Sieber explained that the visit formed part of an ongoing evaluation to identify potential areas of collaboration with the University.

Dr. Sieber described USLGE as a nonprofit, nationwide trade association representing a wide range of U.S. livestock organizations, including those in dairy, beef, swine, horse, goat, and sheep breeding. The association, he said, is dedicated to fostering international cooperation by connecting global livestock producers with progressive U.S. breeders and providing technical and educational support to improve productivity and sustainability. He explained that USLGE helps to direct its partners to the appropriate breed associations, export companies, and agencies that can provide the technologies and expertise needed to succeed.

He reiterated USLGE’s readiness to build a strong and mutually beneficial partnership with the University of Jos, noting that such collaboration would contribute significantly to global food security, sustainable livestock development, and improved livelihoods through innovation and capacity development.

Dr. Sieber added that USLGE remains committed to advancing sustainable animal agriculture globally by linking international producers with top-tier U.S. breeders, ensuring access to safe, nutritious food while protecting natural resources and promoting economic growth through grants, technology, and technical support.

As part of the visit, Professor Ishaya hosted the USLGE delegation to a delightful dinner at the Elysar Chinese Restaurant, Ladis Gold House, Tudun Wada. The evening provided a relaxed setting for continued conversation and cultural exchange beyond the formal meeting room. Guests shared laughter, stories, and a few friendly debates, a light-hearted reminder that while food security is serious business, good food has a universal language of its own. The camaraderie at the dinner reflected the warmth and optimism surrounding the partnership between the University and USLGE.

The visit by the U.S. Livestock Genetics Export delegation marks another milestone in the University of Jos’s drive to strengthen international partnerships and expand its research frontiers in food security and agricultural innovation. Once formalized, the collaboration is expected to enhance the University’s role as a leading hub for agricultural research and human capacity development in Nigeria and across Africa.

Tongdyen D. S. Dachung

Principal Assistant Registrar

University of Jos