The Alternative Bank, in partnership with Plateau State University (PLASU), has introduced a major development in livestock feed production through the successful cultivation of Alfalfa, a high-protein forage crop, now performing well under trial conditions in Plateau State. The initiative, funded under the bank’s Corporate Social Investment programme and officially handed over to the university in May 2025, is being described as a turning point for Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Stakeholders believe the project could increase animal productivity, lower feed costs, and help address the farmer-herder conflict by providing sustainable feed alternatives.
The results of the Alfalfa Adaptability and Performance Trials were presented during PLASU’s Green Field Day held at the Faculty of Agriculture Research Plot in Bokkos. The event brought together key players from research, policy, agriculture, and development sectors who came to witness the progress made on the trials.
Early outcomes have been encouraging, with germination rates reported at over 85 per cent within two weeks and plants reaching 66.5 centimetres in height within just 13 weeks. Researchers noted that these results confirm Alfalfa’s suitability for Plateau’s climate and soil conditions.
Projections show that biomass yields could reach 18 to 20 tons per hectare annually under rain-fed conditions, with protein levels meeting international standards.
Associate Professor Hosea Istifanus Finangwai, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and lead researcher on the project, highlighted the significance of the findings. He said the results “open new pathways for strengthening ruminant nutrition and establishing a more resilient livestock feed system across the country.”
Representing The Alternative Bank, Head of Agric Finance Ugonwa Ikegwuonu delivered the remarks of CEO Hassan Yusuf, who described the initiative as “a major milestone for Nigeria’s agricultural future.”
He added that the project demonstrates the value of collaboration between academia and the financial sector, aligning with the bank’s mission to promote regenerative agriculture and university-led innovations with commercial and social benefits.
PLASU Vice-Chancellor Professor Shedrack Gaya Best, represented by Associate Professor Keziah Ayuba, praised the collaboration, noting that it enhances the university’s role as a leader in agricultural innovation. He said the project offers students practical training, entrepreneurial exposure, and opportunities in agribusiness.
Members of the herder community who attended the event expressed gratitude for being involved in the process and pledged to support its implementation. Plateau State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Sunday Akpa, commended the partnership and announced plans to scale up the project to all 17 local government areas.
He emphasised that the Alfalfa trials are key to improving the livestock value chain, boosting rural livelihoods, and advancing the state’s food security goals.
This Alfalfa initiative is part of The Alternative Bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture and funding research-based solutions that deliver measurable impact nationwide.