In a fresh push to reposition its livestock sector for growth and resilience, the Kogi State Government has commenced the upgrade of nine strategic livestock markets under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.
The project was formally flagged off at Okumi Livestock Market in Lokoja during a stakeholders’ engagement and site handover ceremony, signalling the start of construction activities statewide.
However, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, said the initiative reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to transforming the livestock sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers and marketers.
Bolarin urged livestock stakeholders to promote peace and cooperation within their communities, noting that harmony and improved security are critical to attracting sustained development interventions.
He also highlighted the state government’s efforts in securing lives and property, calling for collective action against kidnapping and banditry.
The State Project Coordinator of Kogi L-PRES, Mr. Abdulkabir Onoruoyiza Otaru, disclosed that the project has received World Bank approval, completed procurement processes and awarded the rehabilitation contract to RSA Global Investment Limited. He explained that the handover of sites to the contractor marks the official commencement of work.
Otaru said the nine markets, one in each federal constituency, are located in Okene, Osara-Ngada, Ero, Ejule, Ankpa, Sheria, Okumi, Kabba and Egbe, with construction expected to be completed within six to twelve months. He noted that the upgrades would address longstanding infrastructure gaps in livestock trading centres.
According to him, the markets will be equipped with modern facilities including administrative blocks, veterinary clinics, security posts, water and sanitation facilities, solar street lighting, and loading and unloading ramps to improve hygiene, safety and efficiency.
The coordinator commended Governor Ododo for the timely payment of the state’s counterpart fund, describing it as critical to the smooth implementation of the project, and assured that strong monitoring and supervision mechanisms are in place to ensure quality delivery.
Community leaders and local government officials, including the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Hon. Abdullahi Adamu, and traditional rulers, pledged support for the project, while representatives of livestock marketers and the contractor assured stakeholders of cooperation, security and timely execution.
