Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has conveyed the commitment of his administration to harness livestock and crop production for the creation of wealth and sustainable employment opportunities. The Governor made this announcement in Ado-Ekiti on Friday during the inauguration of the Steering Committee for the Livestock Production and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.
He highlighted the government's intention to utilize the L-PRES project, a collaboration with the World Bank, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, to enhance productivity and commercialization in targeted livestock production systems. This initiative aims to strengthen livelihood resilience, particularly for those affected by farmer-herder conflicts.
Governor Oyebanji outlined specific plans for the L-PRES project, including restructuring and upgrading poultry facilities at the Livestock Development Centre (LDC) Erifun to become a comprehensive livestock agribusiness center. This center will accommodate various livestock value chains and enhance the central abattoir and cattle market along Iworoko road to ensure public health and safety.
In addition, the Governor emphasized the renovation and modernization of veterinary hospitals in the state, equipping them with advanced disease diagnostic kits. The establishment of a modern cattle market was also highlighted as a significant source of revenue generation and job creation.
Governor Oyebanji underscored his government's support for the project, recognizing its potential to transform the agricultural landscape and improve the livelihoods of farmers. He outlined strategies to position Ekiti State as an attractive investment destination for agro-investors, emphasizing the importance of the L-PRES initiative in building strong institutions for agro-economic development, conflict resolution, capacity building, and infrastructure construction/renovation.
The Governor charged the Steering Committee to provide policy guidance and strategic direction for the project while encouraging stakeholders along the livestock value chain to seize the opportunity presented by L-PRES. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Boluwade Ebenezer, expressed gratitude for the Governor's commitment to sustainable commercial animal agriculture and celebrated Ekiti State's selection for participation in the project.