Food security: World Bank approves Kogi as Livestock Service Center
IDRIS AHMED Lokoja.
The World Bank has selected Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Kogi L-PRES), as one of five implementing States to host Livestock Service Center (LSC).
The State Project Coordinator of Kogi L-PRES, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, who disclosed in a press statement on Wednesday in Lokoja, said the Livestock Service Center (LSC), is a flagship initiative under the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES).
“The Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (KOGI L-PRES) is pleased to announce its selection as one of five (5) implementing states to qualify for the prestigious Livestock Service Center (LSC).
“Livestock Service Center (LSC) is a flagship initiative under the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES).
He disclosed that the National Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Mr. Sanusi Abubakar, who broke the good news said the State chosen following a rigorous selection process.
“Kogi State was chosen based on stringent criteria, including the availability of adequate land, a strategic location, a detailed design and management framework, an established livestock trade structure, and the potential for modern feed lotting, processing, and marketing facilities.
“The Livestock Service Center, to be sited beside the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, is set to revolutionise livestock production in Kogi State and beyond.
“This transformative project will catalyze economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance food security, solidifying Kogi State’s position as a leader in Nigeria’s livestock sector,” he said.
The State Co-ordinator emphasised that the centre’s far-reaching benefits include serving as a premier hub for innovation and development in the livestock sector.
Bolarin said that It would also create jobs, boost productivity, and promote sustainable practices, not only for Kogi but for the entire nation.
He added: “By leveraging our strategic market location, industrial synergies, and academic expertise, this center will deliver comprehensive livestock services that drive economic growth and development.”
“Amongst the structures to be constructed are a state-of-art animal reference and diagnostic veterinary, modern automated poultry production system, artificial insemination centre, breeding and other large and small ruminant production facilities and equipment”, the State project coordinator stated.
He appreciated Gov. Ahmed Ododo, for his unwavering support and commitment to the success of this project.
