Kogi L-Pres Distributes Farm Implements Worth Millions of Naira to Livestock Farmers »

… Reiterates commitment to ranking first in livestock production in the country.

The Kogi State Government has reiterated it commitment to ranking first in livestock production in the country.

The Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojoma, made the disclosure at the distribution of implements and other farming implements to livestock farmers in the State by the Kogi livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, Kogi L- Pres.

The Commissioner said his administration is concerned about the growth of livestock farmers, assured that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring that the growth of livestock in the State is enhanced.

The Commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, disclosed that agriculture tops it thematic agenda, pointing out that the sector would continue to make the sector- number one in the State.

The Commissioner commanded L-Pres for piloting the affairs of ensuring the growth of livestock sector in the State, assured that it will continue to make the welfare of the people of the State a priority.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, Kogi L-Pres State Project Coordinator, said the distribution of the livestock farm implement to farmers marks a significant step forward for the Kogi L-PRES project.

Dr. Bolarin described the unwavering support of Gov. Usman Ahmed Ododo to improving the livestock productivity and his commitment to empowering farmers as truly commendable.

The Project Coordinator described the livestock sector as vital to Nigeria’s socioeconomic development, disclosing that 42% of Nigeria’s population own at least one type of livestock, 30% of the population eke out a living directly from livestock production, while an estimated 5 million people are productively engaged in upstream segments of the livestock value chain.

He however notes the challenges facing the sector as the continuous decrease of limited natural resources, especially
pasture; a significant source of Framers – Herders crisis in Nigeria.

He said it is in recognition of the sector and need to address its challenges that L-PRES project was launched, commended the present administration to improving Productivity,

The Commissioner encouraged livestock farmers and disputing parties to
resolve their differences amicably, pointing out that the present administration is committed to ensuring peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.

In his remarks at the occasion, Assistant Commander Bayode Emmanuel head of the Agro Ranger, NSCDC, cautioned against the sales of the input, urge them to use it for the purposes intended.

He congratulated the beneficiaries, said d they have been carefully selected based on their pedigree, charged them to justify the confidence reposed on them.

Highlights of the occasion was the distribution of pasture seeds livestock farmers are expected to plant to provide food for their livestocks and folder chopper used in chopping livestock feeds for easy consumption amongst several other implements worth millions of Naira.