Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to utilizing livestock and crop production as a means to generate wealth and create sustainable job opportunities for the populace.
Speaking in Ado-Ekiti on Friday during the inauguration of the Steering Committee of the Livestock Production and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, the Governor revealed the state’s intent to capitalize on the project to enhance productivity and commercialization of targeted livestock production systems. Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of strengthening livelihood resilience, particularly for those affected by farmer-herder conflicts.
The L-PRES project, which is in collaboration with the World Bank, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, presents an opportunity for the restructuring and upgrade of poultry facilities at Livestock Development Centre (LDC) Erifun. The objective is to transform it into a livestock agribusiness center accommodating various livestock value chains. Additionally, there are plans to upgrade the central abattoir and cattle market along Iworoko road to ensure public health and safety.
The Governor also outlined the renovation and modernization of state veterinary hospitals with advanced disease diagnostic equipment, as well as the establishment of a modern cattle market to boost revenue generation and job creation in the state. Affirming his government’s support for the project, he highlighted its potential to enhance existing livestock value chains.
Beyond transforming the agricultural landscape, Governor Oyebanji stressed that the project aims to improve farmer livelihoods. He also revealed strategies aimed at positioning the state as an attractive investment hub for agricultural investors.
Addressing the committee, the Governor charged them with providing policy guidelines, strategic orientation, and direction for the project. He urged stakeholders along the livestock value chain to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the project.
“Ekiti State will strategically leverage L-PRES to establish robust institutions for agro-economic development, conflict resolution, capacity building, extension services, and the construction/renovation of livestock infrastructure. This will also facilitate working capital for investors,” the Governor affirmed.
Prior to the Governor’s remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Boluwade Ebenezer, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering commitment to developing sustainable commercial animal agriculture in the state. He expressed delight at Ekiti State’s selection to participate in the project.
