The Edo State Government is seeking international partnerships and investments to modernize its livestock production and develop the state's animal husbandry sector. Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Livestock Development, Roland Igbadumhe, made this disclosure at the 35th annual Sommet de l’Élevage in Clermont-Ferrand, France. Igbadumhe stated that the government is exploring international expertise and modern technology to transform livestock farming from traditional methods to a commercially viable industry. This move aims to increase agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and generate employment.
The Sommet de l’Élevage, a major international livestock trade event in Europe, attracted over 1,700 exhibitors and 110,000 agricultural professionals, policymakers, investors, and stakeholders from across the world. Igbadumhe's participation was part of the Okpebholo administration's efforts to modernize livestock production. During the summit, the Edo State delegation engaged in technical discussions with French livestock breeding experts, sustainable feed producers, and manufacturers of modern processing equipment. These discussions focused on identifying technologies and partnerships that could be adapted to Edo State.
The Edo State delegation showcased some of the government's ongoing livestock initiatives, including the development of dedicated grazing reserves, capacity-building programs for farmers, and public-private partnership opportunities in poultry, pig, and ruminant production. Igbadumhe noted that the government is particularly interested in production systems that can increase productivity, reduce environmental pressure, and improve the profitability of livestock farming for farmers. The state's livestock development plans will incorporate partnerships and investment opportunities identified at the summit.
According to Igbadumhe, Edo State is uniquely positioned to lead a livestock revolution in the South-South region. The government's presence at the summit was a targeted effort to source global technology, forge strategic partnerships, and attract foreign direct investment into the state's growing pastoral and animal production ecosystem. The initiative is expected to contribute to food security, create employment in rural communities, and diversify the Edo State economy.
The summit, which began on October 6, provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and showcase innovations in animal production. Igbadumhe's participation in the summit aligns with the Okpebholo administration's efforts to increase agricultural productivity and strengthen food security. The government aims to move livestock farming from predominantly traditional methods to a commercially viable and technology-driven industry.
The Edo State government's efforts to modernize livestock production have been driven by the need to increase productivity, reduce environmental pressure, and improve the profitability of livestock farming for farmers. The government is exploring various production systems that can achieve these goals. The partnerships and investment opportunities identified at the summit will be incorporated into the state's livestock development plans.
The modernization of livestock production in Edo State is expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy and food security. The initiative is expected to create employment opportunities in rural communities and contribute to the state's economic diversification. The government's efforts to attract foreign direct investment and source global technology will be crucial in achieving these goals.
Key points
- The Edo State government is seeking international partnerships and investments to modernize its livestock production and develop the state's animal husbandry sector.
- The government aims to move livestock farming from traditional methods to a commercially viable and technology-driven industry.
- The initiative is expected to contribute to food security, create employment in rural communities, and diversify the Edo State economy.
