Kogi State government has appealed to the federal government for support in the advancement of livestock development.
Governor Ahmed Ododo made the appeal during a stakeholders engagement with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee on Saturday in Lokoja.
Governor Ododo, who was represented by his Deputy, Elder Joel Salifu, said the state had secured an agreement with an agricultural technology firm to spearhead the mechanisation of feedstock cultivation within and outside the state.
The governor urged the federal government to allocate N7 billion to the state for the establishment of the necessary tools for the investment.
He appealed to the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to advocate for Kogi as the nation’s production and processing hub to potential investors, particularly JBS Brazil.
He noted that Kogi’s strategic centrality, agro-climatic advantages and political commitment made it an ideal area for investment to flourish.
The governor implored the committee to incorporate the state into current and forthcoming technical support programmes.
He maintained that the modernisation of livestock production necessitated state-level coordination, investment and policy innovation, in which Kogi had demonstrated significant interest and dedication.
He assured the committee of the alignment of the state Ministry of Livestock Development with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and its readiness to enhance livestock production, boost food security, generate employment and stimulate inclusive economic growth.
Co-chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, represented by the Secretary of the committee, Professor Yahaya Kuta, pledged to partner the state government.
He commended Governor Ododo for establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, positioning Kogi at the forefront compared to other states in the country.
The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr Olufemi Bolarin, urged the committee to consider the state government’s requests seriously, highlighting its openness to welcome lforeign investors interested in livestock farming.
