An integrated framework for characterising livestock systems and assessing ruminant performance across heterogeneous production environments: Evidence from Nigeria

Globally, livestock production systems (LPS) are crucial for supporting livelihoods and ensuring food security. This study developed and applied an integrated livestock production zone (LPZ) framework to characterise (LPS) and evaluate ruminant performance across Nigeria’s diverse agroecological environments. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining expert consultations, a literature review, and a participatory on-farm survey across 12 states with 1,404 participants. Ruminant performance indicators were estimated using the 12-month retrospective demographic method implemented through focus group discussions. Three LPZs: Dry Savannah (DS), Wet Savannah (WS), and Rainforest were identified using a multi-criteria classification approach and linked to LPS typologies. Monogastric systems comprised free-range (extensive), semi-intensive (dual-purpose chickens, mixed-improved pigs), and intensive specialised systems (layers, broilers, breeders; and pig fattening and breeding). Ruminant systems included pastoral (extensive); agropastoral and peri-urban dairy (semi-intensive); and commercial and homestead fattening (intensive). The performance varied systematically across systems and LPZs, reflecting interactions between agroecologies and husbandry practices. Pastoral and agropastoral herd sizes were largest in the DS and lowest in the Rainforest. Milk offtake (L/cow/day) ranged from 0.4 ± 0.1 (Pastoral) in the DS to 1.5 ± 0.4 (Agropastoral) in the WS, while peri-urban dairy systems ranged from 4.0 ± 1.8 (Rainforest) to 6.5 ± 2.0 (WS). Commercial fattening systems outperformed homestead systems, achieving higher finishing weights (cattle: 351.7 ± 11.1 vs 273.3 ± 7.3 kg; sheep: 52.7 ± 9.1 vs 44.4 ± 2.8 kg; goats: 27.3 ± 4.2 vs 22.3 ± 2.9 kg). Overall, the integrated LPZ framework provides an ecologically explicit basis for characterising LPS, evaluating livestock performance, supporting targeted interventions, guiding evidence-based investments, and shaping livestock development policies across heterogeneous production environments.