The Kwara State Government has launched a study tour and training programme aimed at exposing livestock farmers to proven best practices in animal management, with the goal of improving productivity and promoting sustainable farming across the state.
The initiative, which draws participants from all 16 local government areas, is designed to strengthen farmers’ technical knowledge and practical skills in modern livestock production.
The programme began on Thursday with a visit to Milkin Barn Dairy Farm, a private livestock enterprise recognised for its advanced ranching and animal husbandry systems.
Leading the delegation of 35 farmers and government officials, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs Oloruntoyosi Ayobola Thomas, described the tour as part of a broader plan to reposition livestock farming as a viable and profitable business sector in Kwara State.
She explained that the exposure would help farmers better understand organised ranching systems and adopt methods that support higher output and improved livelihoods.
According to the commissioner, the training is intended to promote consistent use of sound ranching practices among farmers in the state.
She noted that sustainable production methods would not only raise farm efficiency and profitability but also contribute to food security and economic growth.
She further encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to their individual operations in line with national development priorities.
The Director of Livestock Services at the ministry, Alhaji Muhammed Umar Ahmed, said the programme supports the Federal Government’s National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy.
He explained that the strategy focuses on modernising livestock production through improved breeding, effective disease management, better feeding systems and enhanced animal welfare, while also addressing food security concerns and reducing conflicts linked to livestock farming.
In his address, the Managing Director of Milkin Barn Agroserv, Mr Tony Jibunoh, called on farmers to embrace innovation and technology in their daily operations.
He stressed that attention to animal health, nutrition, breeding and waste management was essential for meeting Nigeria’s growing demand for animal protein.
Some of the participating farmers described the tour as enlightening, praising the state government for the opportunity to learn modern ranching techniques firsthand.
They said the training had expanded their understanding of pasture development, feed formulation, breeding and reproduction, and expressed confidence that the new insights would lead to better productivity on their farms.
The programme comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to reposition the livestock sector as a key driver of food security, employment and economic diversification, following the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the introduction of nationwide livestock transformation initiatives.
