In a bold move to revolutionize the livestock sector and promote economic growth, the Kwara State Government has allocated 1,000 hectares of land for pasture development at the Gida Magajiya Cattle Ranch in Kaiama Local Government Area.
Announcing the initiative during a stakeholders’ meeting at the palace of the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Shehu Omar, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, outlined the government’s vision.
She revealed that the pasture development project would utilize a portion of the 3,624 hectares of gazetted land designated for ranching and livestock activities.“This initiative aims to reduce conflicts between herders and farmers while serving as an economic booster for local communities.
It will create job opportunities for youths and provide livestock farmers with easy access to quality feed,” Mrs. Sokoya explained, emphasizing the transformative potential of the project.The Emir of Kaiama lauded the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for the community’s economic growth. “This project, alongside the ongoing rehabilitation of the Bode-Saadu to Kaiama road, will enhance the social and economic well-being of our people and contribute to food security in Kwara State and Nigeria at large,” the Emir said.Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, the State Project Coordinator for L-PRES, highlighted that the large-scale pastoral development would minimize open grazing, prevent farmer-herder conflicts, and unlock employment opportunities within the livestock value chain.
He assured that pasture planting would commence during the next rainy season.
The Emir pledged the community’s unwavering support, noting the project’s potential to transform Kaiama into a model for sustainable livestock farming in the state.This initiative is part of Kwara State’s broader vision to modernize agriculture, enhance rural livelihoods, and position itself as a key player in Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Source:Newkwara Media
