The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has revealed plans to establish modern ranching facilities aimed at enhancing meat processing standards in the state.
The governor’s announcement comes as part of efforts to tackle the unhygienic and disorganized slaughtering processes that currently characterize cattle markets in the region.
Governor Abiodun highlighted that approximately 9,000 to 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at the Kara Cattle Market along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway to supply meat to Lagos markets.
However, he emphasized that the current slaughtering process is not conducted under the required hygienic conditions, raising concerns about the safety of meat for human consumption.
Abiodun made these remarks on Monday when he hosted Mr. Timothee Witkowski, Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, and Mrs. Sonia Darraco, the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. During the meeting, the governor outlined his immediate plans for setting up the ranching facilities in Ogun State.
The facilities will not only focus on cattle farming but will also include piggery and improved poultry management, addressing various aspects of livestock farming in the state.
The governor emphasized that the new ranching facilities will allow the state government to rear, fatten, slaughter, and process meat in a hygienic manner that meets global standards for human consumption. He further explained that the initiative would also help streamline the meat supply chain, ensuring more efficient and cleaner processes in meat production.
Abiodun commended SEMMARIS for its significant contributions to the agricultural and food distribution sectors, particularly noting the successful organization of the Rungis Farmers’ Market in France, which provides affordable food to the French populace.
He described the arrival of SEMMARIS in Ogun State as a transformative opportunity, which he believes will bring about positive changes not only in the state but also in the southwest region of Nigeria.
Ogun State’s strategic location, robust road networks, and vast arable land were highlighted by the governor as key factors that make the state an attractive destination for agricultural investment.
He pointed out that Ogun’s abundant limestone deposits and fertile land are ideal for the cultivation of crops such as cocoa, palm oil, and cotton, making it a prime area for agricultural development.
This meeting is a follow-up to a previous one held by Governor Abiodun in France, where he discussed business collaboration opportunities between Nigeria and France.
The governor also expressed that President Bola Tinubu is closely monitoring the discussions, particularly in the context of fostering deeper economic and business ties between the two nations.
Governor Abiodun reassured the visitors that his administration would provide all necessary support and incentives to ensure the success of the project, facilitating a conducive environment for the company’s operations in Ogun State.
He also noted that the initiative would not only benefit the state’s agricultural sector but would also provide vital support to local farmers by offering extension services and acting as an off-taker for their agricultural produce.
In his remarks, Mr. Witkowski stated that SEMMARIS’ involvement in Ogun State would be pivotal in modernizing agricultural projects and providing technical expertise to the local sector.
He further emphasized the state’s potential due to its vast land resources and the vision of the state government, which he believes will make the project a success.
According to Witkowski, the project will create employment opportunities, enhance food security, and improve the agricultural value chain.
Mrs. Darraco, also speaking at the meeting, confirmed that SEMMARIS is currently conducting a feasibility study to explore potential investment opportunities in the state.
She reassured the governor that France is ready to support the initiative.