The Federal Government says it will soon end the slaughtering of livestock in uncontrolled environments across the country.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, disclosed this on Thursday in Kaduna during the launch of Olam Agri's TruValue Cattle Feed, a beef and dairy concentrate feed.

Maiha said the move is part of efforts to modernise Nigeria's red meat industry, improve meat quality and position the country for the export market.

He said the government has commenced the development of modern abattoirs and plans to require livestock meant for the market to pass through feedlots and meet prescribed standards before slaughter.

According to the Minister, the government wants to gradually end the trading of live animals and ensure that slaughtering is carried out only in controlled environments.

Maiha said groundbreaking ceremonies had already been held for two modern abattoirs, as well as a mini abattoir in the Offa axis.