Ondo State Livestock Productivity Resilience Support (L—PRES) Project has trained no fewer than 1,000 livestock farmers on modern farming techniques and record keeping for increased production in the state.
Mr Olufemi Adeogun, L–PRES State Project Coordinator (SPC), made this known at the first graduation ceremony of the L—PRES Farmers’ Field School (FFS) held on Thursday in Akure.
Adeogun said the beneficiaries, who underwent six months training in the three value chains of poultry; goat and sheep; and pig, cut across the 18 Local Government Area of the state.
The SPC explained that the training and skills gained at the FFS would enable the farmers work together and transform agriculture into a more productive, profitable and climate-resilient sector.
“Gone are the days where farmers used old methods of farming, farmers are moving into technology all over the world.
“Ondo State farmers, especially livestock farmers, should be exceptional for their betterment and the country at large,” he said.
Also, Engr. Leye Akinola, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, congratulated the beneficiaries for their commitment and willingness to learn, and urged them to share the knowledge and skills acquired with other farmers.
Akinola, represented by Mr Folusho Ojo, Director Animal Husbandry Service Department in the ministry, also urged them to be ambassadors of modern agricultural practices within their communities.
He said government would continue to collaborate with development partners such as L-PRES to ensure that farmers across the state had access to training, improved technologies, inputs and market opportunities.
“I strongly believe that our farmers have not only gained theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience in modern farming techniques, livestock management, disease control, pasture development, and sustainable agricultural practices.
“So, as we celebrate today’s achievements, let us remember that the future of agriculture lies in knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.
“With the FFS initiative, I am confident that the livestock sector in Ondo State will continue to grow and contribute meaningfully to our state’s economy.
“The Ondo State Government remains fully committed to supporting initiatives that improve agricultural productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and enhance food security,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Engr. Abiodun Fashoro, a pig farmer, appreciated the project for the support and knowledge, saying it would improve productions in the state.
“We will implement all we have been taught in the field in our various farms and we will yield to all the advice given us for profit in production of our farms.
“With this training, there is a better future for livestock farmers in the state,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that L—PRES gave basic tools to all the farmers to support them in their various farms.