George George Idowu
Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the livestock sector by investing in vital infrastructure and equipment.
Speaking at the official opening of a training workshop for 100 additional extension agents and farmers, the governor emphasised the importance of boosting livestock productivity to enhance the livelihoods of citizens.
The event organized by the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) and held at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) in Idofian, Kwara State, included the flag-off of the distribution of crop residue crushers and pelleting machines to livestock farmers.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, acknowledged the challenges facing the livestock sector, including climate change, disease outbreaks, and limited access to markets and resources.
“Capacity building is key to overcoming these challenges and unlocking the potential of our livestock sector,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated, adding that the goal of his administration is to empower farmers by enhancing their livestock management capabilities.
He underscored the need for sustainable practices in animal husbandry to ensure healthier livestock, higher yields, and reduced environmental impact.
The governor explained that through the L-PRES initiative, his government has launched a comprehensive program focused on training and educating farmers, equipping them with the skills needed to adapt to a changing agricultural landscape. The training is expected to increase the effectiveness of extension agents, improve livestock management practices, and boost the state’s economy.
Flagging off the crop residue processing equipment, the governor highlighted this as another significant step toward realizing the full potential of the livestock sector.
He expressed confidence that such initiatives would empower farmers and help meet the demands of the state’s growing population.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah, urged participants to take full advantage of the training and use the skills acquired to boost the state’s economy.
Lead facilitator, Dr. Akeem Ajeigbe, praised the governor’s support for the training and encouraged participants to apply their new knowledge to solve the challenges facing the livestock sector.
In his welcome address, State Project Coordinator Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye commended the governor, the World Bank, and the National L-PRES Office for their technical support.
He noted that the training would enable participants to become job creators, further benefiting the state’s economy.
Representing the participants, Mrs. Abdulkareem Shukurat and Mr. Akani Tajudeen expressed their gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to become self-reliant and contribute to job creation in the state.
