| Sumario: | Biotechnology development has been the subject of interest in Nigeria over the past decade. As
part of the study by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) sponsored by the US
Agency for International Development (USAID) to investigate the development and/or prospects
of biotechnology tools as applied to animal science research in Nigeria, a survey aimed at assessing biotechnology capacity of Nigeria for animal research was conducted between June and July
2004. The survey used a structured questionnaire, interviews and personal visits to some
universities, polytechnics and national research institutions situated in strategic locations in
Nigeria. Though a general deterioration of facilities in most universities was noted, there are
quite a number of institutions identified to be capable of applying some biotechnology tools to
improve animal production in Nigeria. There are well-trained Nigerian researchers in the country
who when supplied with tools in biotechnology and financial support to carry out well-focused
or coordinated research can help propel the country towards self-sufficiency in animal production.
The role of ILRI and development investors like USAID in making significant intervention in
the attainment of this goal is highlighted.
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