Kwara State Launches Capacity-Building Programme for Livestock Farmers

News in brief:

-Kwara State has commenced a livestock capacity-building programme covering all 16 LGAs.

-The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s livestock development strategy.

The Kwara State Government has launched a comprehensive capacity-building and study tour programme for livestock farmers across the state as part of efforts to strengthen food security, modernise animal production and align with the Federal Government’s livestock development agenda.

The programme targets farmers from all 16 local government areas of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock Development, Ahmed Ajiboye, the programme commenced with a study visit to Milkin Barn Dairy Farm, a private livestock enterprise recognised for modern ranching systems and best practices in animal husbandry.

The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs Oloruntoyosi Ayobola Thomas, led a delegation of 35 livestock farmers and ministry officials on the tour.

Government Targets Modern and Profitable Livestock Sector

Speaking during the visit, Mrs Thomas described the initiative as a strategic step towards building a modern and commercially viable livestock industry in Kwara State.

She said the training and coaching programme is designed to standardise and deepen the adoption of good ranching practices across livestock farms in the state.

“Our goal is to ensure that farmers adopt sustainable livestock management methods that will improve output, enhance food security and support economic growth,” she said.

She urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the programme to improve efficiency and profitability in their respective operations.

Programme Aligned with National Livestock Reforms

The Director of Livestock Services, Alhaji Muhammed Umar Ahmed, said the initiative aligns fully with the Federal Government’s National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy.

According to him, the national framework prioritises improved breeding systems, ranching practices, disease control and sustainable feed management as solutions to food security challenges and farmer-herder conflicts.

Managing Director of Milkin Barn Agroserv, Mr Tony Jibunoh, encouraged participating farmers to embrace innovation and modern technology in livestock production. He said improved efficiency and productivity are critical to meeting Nigeria’s growing demand for animal protein.

Farmers who participated in the study tour described the experience as enlightening, noting that it exposed them to practical knowledge in pasture development, feed formulation, breeding, reproduction and modern animal husbandry techniques.

They expressed confidence that the skills acquired would significantly boost productivity and sustainability on their farms. The programme forms part of broader national efforts to reposition Nigeria’s livestock sector for food security, job creation and economic diversification following the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.