From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Federal government has announced plans to upgrade the Benue swine and crop improvement project in Yadav, Gboko Local Government Area, to meet the needs of the people.
Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Maiha stated this during his visit to the site at Akperan Orshi Polytechnic Yandev in Gboko, at the weekend.
Maiha expressed satisfaction with the existing swine project, describing it as noble and worthy of upgrading.
He added that the farm, which currently has 79 pigs, will be upgraded to operate at its full capacity of 3,000 pig holdings.
The minister also announced that the project will serve as a reproductive center, producing piglets for out-growers to buy.
Maiha revealed plans by the federal government to establish a small modular processing unit for pig meat processing and packaging, as well as encourage the establishment of an integrated piggery farming and processing initiatives as a Special Agro Processing Zone.
During his visit to Benue Livestock Investigation and Breeding Centre in Raav, Gwer East Local Government Area, Maiha urged the Benue State government to clear 500 hectares of land for livestock fodder production, insisting that the initiative would enhance fodder availability, support other markets and create export opportunities.
The minister pledged to enhance capacity building and introduce modern breeding systems at the center, which will collaborate with Joseph Sarwua Tarka University Makurdi for research purposes.
He disclosed that a committee would be set up to suggest ways to rehabilitate the center’s facilities.
In his remarks, the Director-General, Benue Bureau for Livestock Development, Trans Border and Animal Control, Dr Aondoakaa Asambe commended the governor’s vision for creating the bureau, noting that with ranches, most security challenges facing the state would be addressed and farmers will return to their ancestral homes.
The minister also visited the International Cattle Market, Makurdi and held a closed-door meeting with stakeholders in the livestock industry.
