The Oyo State government has commenced artificial insemination training for over 100 livestock farmers to enhance dairy production and reduce meat costs.
The training, organized by the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), aims to equip farmers with modern technologies and techniques to improve livestock management.
Dr. Debo Akande, Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agribusiness, emphasized the significance of artificial insemination, stating, “It’s a leap forward in livestock management… By adopting advanced reproductive technologies, we’re improving the quality and quantity of beef and cow milk production, making it more affordable for residents.”
The training covers reproductive health, semen collection and storage, and insemination techniques.
Participants expressed optimism about the program’s potential benefits, including reduced meat costs and improved dairy production.
Dr. Akande highlighted the importance of adopting modern technologies, saying, “We’ve been rearing goats and cattle for a long time, but we haven’t been doing it the right way… By understanding artificial insemination, we can increase productivity and get better quality meat and milk.”
Professor Olofisayo Leigh, lead resource person, praised the state government’s vision, stating, “AI is a leading technology in animal reproduction… If we want any turnaround in animal reproduction, we have to go the way of AI.”
The training is part of OYSADA’s broader agribusiness policy, supported by the World Bank, to address rising beef prices and improve livestock productivity.