Kogi State Seeks Federal Govt Support in Livestock Development »

The Kogi State Government has solicited the partnership and support of the federal government for the advancement of livestock development in the state.

The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, made the appeal during a stakeholder engagement on livestock development organized by the Kogi State Ministry of Livestock Development in collaboration with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee at the banquet hall of the Government House in Lokoja.

Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the Governor said that the state had secured an agreement with an agricultural technology firm to spearhead the mechanization of feedstock cultivation both within the state and beyond. He emphasized that to realize this initiative, Kogi State seeks a federal allocation of Seven Billion Naira to establish the necessary infrastructure, logistics, and enabling environment required to attract and retain the investment.

He urged the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to advocate for Kogi State as the nation’s production and processing hub for potential investors, particularly JBS Brazil, highlighting that Kogi’s strategic centrality, agro-climatic advantages, and political commitment makes it an ideal area for investment to flourish.

Governor Ododo further implored the committee to incorporate Kogi State in all current and forthcoming technical support programs, prioritize the state in livestock innovation pilot initiatives, and extend investment facilitation avenues to the state’s Ministry of Livestock Development. He maintained that the modernization of livestock production necessitates state-level coordination, investment, and policy innovation, in which Kogi State has demonstrated significant interest and dedication.

He assured the committee of the alignment of the state Ministry of Livestock Development with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and its readiness to enhance livestock production, bolster food security, generate employment, and stimulate inclusive economic growth.

Earlier in his address, the Co-Chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee, Prof. Attahiru Jega, represented by the Secretary of the Committee, Prof. Yahaya Kuta, pledged to partner with the state government to ensure the success of livestock farming in Kogi State through significant investment. He commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, positioning Kogi State at the forefront compared to other states in the country.

The state Commissioner of Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, emphasized during his speech that the stakeholder engagement aims to provide innovative solutions for livestock development, fostering peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders. He urged the committee to consider the state government’s requests seriously, highlighting the state’s openness to welcoming foreign investors interested in livestock farming.

The stakeholders’ engagement which was a tripartite meeting, commenced early in the morning with a courtesy visit to the Governor, represented by his Deputy. Following this, the committee members and potential investors proceeded to the council hall for a high-level discussion with the Governor and the state team, and wrapped up the day with a workshop involving key stakeholders in the livestock industry. The Kogi State Governor’s active involvement in the meeting highlights the state’s dedication to advancing livestock production. This initiative is expected to not only attract foreign direct investment but also decrease unemployment, stimulate economic growth, and boost the state’s economy.