Cattle Operations

Integrated cattle operations for beef and dairy production, utilizing crop residues and producing organic fertilizer.

Overview

AADC's integrated cattle operation represents a strategic approach to livestock production that maximizes synergies with our crop production systems. Our dual-purpose cattle operation produces premium beef and dairy products for the Nigerian market while creating a closed-loop agricultural system that enhances sustainability and profitability.

By utilizing crop residues and by-products as feed inputs and returning manure to crop fields as organic fertilizer, our integrated approach creates multiple value streams while reducing input costs and environmental impact. This circular economy model exemplifies our commitment to sustainable, efficient agricultural systems.

Comparative Advantages

Feed Resources

Abundant crop residues and by-products from our farming operations provide cost-effective, high-quality feed inputs year-round.

Climate Adaptation

Selected cattle breeds are well-adapted to local climate conditions, ensuring optimal performance and animal welfare.

Circular System

Closed-loop integration with crop operations creates multiple value streams and reduces input costs significantly.

Market Demand

Strong and growing domestic demand for quality beef and dairy products, with significant import substitution potential.

Production System

Cattle Breeds and Herd Composition

Our carefully selected breeds balance productivity with adaptation to local conditions:

  • Dairy Focus: Holstein-Friesian × Sokoto Gudali crosses (60-70% Holstein genetics)
  • Beef Focus: Brahman × Sokoto Gudali crosses for optimal growth and meat quality
  • Dual Purpose: Brown Swiss × local breeds for moderate milk production and good beef quality
  • Herd Size: 1,000-1,200 head total capacity

Facilities and Infrastructure

Our modern facilities ensure animal welfare and operational efficiency across our 500-hectare livestock operation:

  • Housing: Open-sided barns with cooling systems for heat stress management
  • Milking Facility: Modern 2×12 herringbone parlor with automated systems
  • Feed Storage: Covered bunkers for silage (10,000 ton capacity)
  • Manure Management: Composting facility and liquid storage

Feeding System

Our integrated feeding approach maximizes use of on-farm resources:

  • Forage Base: Alfalfa hay, rice straw, corn silage
  • Protein Sources: Soybean meal, sesame cake, cottonseed meal
  • Energy Sources: Corn grain, rice bran, molasses
  • By-product Utilization: Crop residues, processing by-products
  • Feeding System: Total Mixed Ration (TMR) for optimal nutrition

Health Management

Our comprehensive health program ensures herd productivity and welfare:

  • Preventive Care: Vaccination program for major diseases
  • Parasite Control: Strategic deworming and ectoparasite management
  • Biosecurity: Controlled access, quarantine protocols
  • Veterinary Services: On-staff veterinarian and technicians
  • Record Keeping: Individual animal health and production records

Dairy Operations

Milk Production System

Our dairy operation focuses on quality and efficiency:

  • Milking Cows: 400-500 head
  • Production Level: 12-18 liters/cow/day (3,500-5,000 liters/cow/year)
  • Milking Frequency: Twice daily
  • Total Production: 5,000-9,000 liters daily
  • Breeding: Artificial insemination with proven genetics

Milk Processing

Our on-site processing adds value and extends shelf life:

  • Pasteurization: HTST system (5,000 liters/day capacity)
  • Product Lines: Fresh milk, yogurt, cheese
  • Packaging: Modern filling and packaging equipment
  • Cold Chain: Refrigerated storage and distribution

Quality Control

Our comprehensive quality management ensures premium products:

  • Testing: Daily testing for fat, protein, bacteria count
  • Standards: Compliance with NAFDAC requirements
  • HACCP: Implemented throughout processing
  • Traceability: Complete batch tracking system

Market Access

Our marketing strategy targets premium segments:

  • Target Markets: Urban centers within 200km radius
  • Channels: Supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, direct delivery
  • Branding: Premium positioning with emphasis on freshness and quality
  • Distribution: Refrigerated vehicles for cold chain integrity

Beef Operations

Beef Production System

Our beef operation focuses on efficient production of quality meat:

  • Breeding Herd: 300-400 brood cows
  • Bull:Cow Ratio: 1:25 (natural service and AI)
  • Calving Rate: 80-85%
  • Weaning Weight: 180-220 kg at 7-8 months
  • Finishing System: Semi-intensive with TMR feeding
  • Finishing Period: 120-150 days
  • Market Weight: 450-500 kg at 18-24 months

Slaughter and Processing

Our processing arrangements ensure quality and food safety:

  • Slaughter: Partnership with modern abattoir
  • Aging: 7-14 days for premium cuts
  • Cutting: Customized for different market segments
  • Packaging: Vacuum packaging for extended shelf life

Quality Standards

Our beef quality program ensures consistent premium products:

  • Grading: Proprietary system based on marbling, color, texture
  • Yield: 55-60% carcass yield
  • Premium Cuts: 40-45% of carcass
  • Traceability: Individual animal tracking from birth to consumer

Market Access

Our marketing strategy targets premium beef segments:

  • Target Markets: High-end restaurants, hotels, specialty butchers
  • Geographic Focus: Major urban centers (Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt)
  • Branding: Premium positioning with emphasis on quality and consistency
  • Distribution: Refrigerated transport with cold chain management

Integration with Crop Operations

Our cattle operation is fully integrated with crop production, creating a circular agricultural system:

Feed Production

Dedicated forage production (alfalfa, corn silage) and utilization of crop residues (rice straw, soybean stubble) and by-products (rice bran, soybean meal).

Manure Management

Collection, composting, and application of manure to crop fields, providing 30-40% of crop nutrient requirements and improving soil organic matter.

Shared Infrastructure

Shared use of machinery, storage facilities, and transportation systems, maximizing capital efficiency and utilization.

Risk Diversification

Multiple income streams from crops and livestock provide natural hedging against market fluctuations and weather-related risks.

Financial Highlights

Production Metrics

  • Milk Production: 1.8-3.2 million liters annually
  • Beef Production: 100-120 tons of beef annually
  • Manure Production: 8,000-10,000 tons annually
  • Feed Consumption: 5,000-6,000 tons of dry matter annually
  • Crop Residue Utilization: 3,000-4,000 tons annually

Financial Performance

  • Milk Revenue: $1.8-3.2 million annually
  • Beef Revenue: $500,000-700,000 annually
  • Fertilizer Value: $200,000-300,000 annually
  • Gross Margin: 30-40%
  • ROI: 15-20% annually after full establishment
  • Payback Period: 5-6 years

Sustainability Considerations

Environmental Sustainability

  • Closed nutrient cycles reducing fertilizer needs
  • Utilization of crop residues that would otherwise be burned
  • Methane capture from manure management
  • Water recycling in dairy operations

Economic Sustainability

  • Multiple revenue streams
  • Reduced input costs through integration
  • Value-added processing
  • Risk diversification across products

Social Sustainability

  • 100-150 direct jobs created
  • 200-300 indirect jobs
  • Contribution to protein security
  • Skills development in modern livestock management

Interested in Learning More?

Discover how our integrated cattle operation represents a premium agricultural investment opportunity with strong returns and positive impact.

Investment Opportunities Contact Our Team