OYEBANJI REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT ...as Minister commissions Model Veterinary Hospital in Ado-Ekiti

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing livestock farming to enhance food security, create jobs and boost the state’s economy.

Oyebanji gave the assurance at the commissioning of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Model Veterinary Hospital in Ado-Ekiti.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, the governor said his administration would sustain efforts to promote livestock production and strengthen the agricultural sector.

He described the hospital as a significant intervention that would improve animal healthcare delivery in the state.

Oyebanji also commended the Minister of Livestock Development, Mallam Idi Mukhtar Maiha, for his efforts to transform the livestock sector.

In his remarks, the Livestock Development Minister ,Maiha said President Bola Tinubu was committed to providing world-class infrastructure to reposition the livestock sector and address gaps in animal healthcare delivery.

He said the facility would improve access to quality veterinary services in Ekiti and the country at large.

The minister commended Oyebanji for his commitment to implementing the L-PRES project in the state, noting that it had recorded impressive results.

He urged stakeholders to ensure the proper utilisation and maintenance of the facility to guarantee its sustainability.

A representative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Adedamola Fasoranti, said the importance of livestock farming could not be overemphasized, stressing the need for accessible and quality veterinary services.

The Ekiti L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr Olayinka Adedipe, appreciated the state government and other stakeholders for their support, which he said had contributed to the project's success in the state.

In separate interviews, the Chairman of the Pig Farmers Association, Pastor Albert Aribisin, and the National Vice-President of the Sheep and Goat Farmers Association, Ekiti State Chapter, Alhaji Bello Elias, welcomed the establishment of the facility.

They expressed optimism that it would improve animal healthcare, enhance productivity and boost their businesses.

Maiha is also expected to visit other livestock facilities in the state, including Ikun Dairy Farm; the ultramodern dual-function abattoir and commercial cattle market along the EKSU-Iworoko Road, Ado-Ekiti; the Livestock Development Centre at Erifun, Ado-Ekiti; and the Poultry Hub at Emure-Ekiti.