Governor Oyebanji Inaugurates L-PRES Project Office, Flags Off Fertilizer Distribution in Ekiti
In a significant stride towards enhancing agricultural productivity, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, inaugurated the Livestock Production Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) project office, vehicles, and other equipment on Tuesday. This initiative is part of his administration’s commitment to the development of the livestock sector and overall food security in the state.
The Governor explained that the L-PRES project, a collaboration with the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, aims to improve livestock productivity and commercialization while strengthening the resilience of livelihoods, especially those affected by farmer-herder conflicts. “Our government supports this project because of its potential to enhance the livestock value chain in Ekiti,” Governor Oyebanji stated during the commissioning ceremony in Ado-Ekiti.
The project will restructure and upgrade the Livestock Development Centre at Erifun in Ado-Ekiti into a livestock agribusiness center, upgrade the central abattoir and cattle market along Iworoko road to ultra-modern, climate-smart facilities, and equip the veterinary hospital with modern diagnostic tools. Additionally, a new cattle market will be established in Omuo Ekiti.
Governor Oyebanji highlighted the importance of leveraging existing livestock facilities and land in the state, including the Livestock Development Centre, Irele grazing reserve, and old Oke-Ako cattle ranch. “These facilities will serve as a springboard for the overall success of the project,” he asserted.
Following the inauguration, the Governor flagged off the distribution of fertilizers to farmers, aimed at improving agricultural yields across the state. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, commended the Governor for his support and commitment to the L-PRES project, noting that Ekiti has met all the requirements for its implementation.
Governor Oyebanji’s efforts in agriculture have also significantly transformed the poultry value chain under the Ekiti State Broiler Production Scheme. “We are not only clearing and ploughing land for our farmers, but we are also providing them with free and subsidized seedlings, fertilizers, and other farm implements,” the Governor emphasized.
The event was graced by Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Head of Service Dr. (Mrs.) Folakemi Olomojobi, former acting Governor Hon. Tope Ademiluyi, and farmers from across the state. Governor Oyebanji’s administration remains dedicated to ensuring Ekiti becomes the food basket of the country through innovative agricultural initiatives and strong institutional support.
