The Ondo State Government has trained over 40 Extension Agents and Livestock Community Service Providers on Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) as part of its efforts to enhance food security and improve livestock production.
The capacity-building program, facilitated by the State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, aims to equip trainees with modern techniques essential for improving livestock rearing practices and resilience.
Speaking at the training, the State L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mr. Olufemi Adeogun, emphasized its significance in achieving the project’s objectives of improving livestock resilience and commercialization in Ondo State.
Mr. Adeogun urged the participants to apply the knowledge gained and educate livestock farmers across the state.
He commended the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for supporting the L-PRES Project, which he described as a transformative initiative for livestock production.
“This training is crucial for keeping up with emerging technologies in animal husbandry practices, which lead to better productivity. Our goal is for those we have trained to go out and train farmers, thereby improving food security and ensuring the production of high-quality, protein-rich meat,” he said.
Professor Olaniyi Okunlola from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), provided in-depth lectures on livestock extension methodologies, marketing strategies, and production economics.
He stressed the importance of record-keeping, effective monitoring, and the integration of business practices into livestock farming.
“This training is designed to prepare them to operate farmers’ field schools and business schools, manage farm records, and access financial assistance for better marketing strategies,” he explained.
Professor Okunlola also highlighted the broader impact of the training on the entire livestock value chain, noting that it prepares participants to disseminate valuable information to farmers and promote inclusive practices.
Participants expressed their gratitude for the training, describing it as a significant step in addressing challenges in livestock farming.
Prince Adelana Adesunloye commended the state government and the L-PRES Project, stating, “We are now equipped with the necessary knowledge about good animal husbandry practices, and we are ready to replicate what we have learned among farmers.”
Another participant, Mrs. Babatunde Bosede, noted the emphasis on gender inclusion and effective animal handling as eye-opening aspects of the program.
“This training has equipped us to play a pivotal role in achieving the objectives of the project by improving livestock production and enhancing food security in the state,” she said.
The L-PRES Project, a six-year World Bank initiative, is being implemented in 20 states, including Ondo State, with the aim of transforming livestock production and fostering food security nationwide.