The main objectives of the then Stock Farm was to produce "by selective breeding, male stock for use as stud bulls by native stock owners". Selection was based on milk yield, body weight and temperament. The policy was continued until 1954, when more emphasis was given to other aspects of animal husbandry, and research on sown pastures and range management was started. In October 1962, the Shika Grassland Research Station (as it was then called) and its parent Institution, the Institute for Agricultural Research were transferred to the Ahmadu Bello University under the collective title of the Institute for Agricultural Research and Special Services. Under this arrangement, Shika Grassland Research Station became closely linked with the Department of Animal Science in the Faculty of Agriculture, with research staff assisting in the teaching work of the Faculty. From 1st July, 1976, the Shika Grassland Research Station by Decree No. 35 of 27th August 1973 and the Research Institutes (Establishment) Order of November, 1975 became the National Animal Production Research Institute with headquarters at Shika and started functioning as a research institute administratively