As reported by Punch, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has reiterated his administration’s commitment to investing in critical infrastructure and equipment in the livestock sector to improve the livelihoods of the citizenry.

Governor AbdulRazaq made this statement during the opening of the 3rd batch training workshop for 100 additional extension agents and farmers. The workshop focused on small ruminant production and crop residue processing for improved utilization by ruminants. The event also included the official flag-off for the distribution of crop residue crushers and pelleting machines to livestock farmers.

The event was organized by the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project Coordination Office in collaboration with Synergy Impact Consultant Limited and the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Kano, and took place at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation in Idofian, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The governor, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas said the livestock sector faces numerous challenges, which include climate change, disease outbreak, and inadequate access to resources and markets.

According to a statement released by the Project Communication and ICT Officer Kwara L-PRES, Yusuf Ganiyu on Friday, the governor stated that capacity building is to support in overcoming the various livestock management challenges with a view to realizing the potential of the sector in the state.

The aim of his administration, AbdulRazaq said, is to ensure that farmers were equipped to meet the challenges hindering their progress by increasing and enhancing their livestock management capacities.

“Our livestock sector must evolve to meet the demands of our growing population while being mindful of environmental sustainability. By implementing best practices in animal husbandry, we can ensure healthier livestock, improved yields, and reduced environmental impact.

“This is why the state government through L-PRES Project designed a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing our livestock capacity through training, education, and sustainable practices to empower our farmers with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape,” the governor said.

He explained that the training will enhance livestock management knowledge in the state, increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the extension agents as well as improve the livelihood and economy of the populace.

Unveiling the crop residue processing equipment, the governor said the initiative is another significant step towards realising the full potential of the livestock sector in the state.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, AbdulRasaq Jiddah tasked the participants to take the opportunities the training offers and utilise it to boost the economy of the state and the country at large.

In his presentation, the lead facilitator, Dr. Akeem Ajeigbe, while applauding the governor for his support towards the success of the training, charged the trainees to reciprocate the good gesture of the government by utilising the knowledge acquired from the training to solve the challenges in the livestock sector of the state.‏

In his welcome address, the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye had earlier commended the governor, the World Bank, and the National L-PRES Office for the enabling environment and the technical support extended to the project in the state.

Oyawoye stated that with the quality of knowledge derived from the training and the enabling environment created by the government, the participants can now become job creators.

Speaking on behalf of other participants, Mrs. Abdulkareem Shukurat and Mr. Akani Tajudeen thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity to be self-reliant and job creators.