Kwara State Advances Agricultural Development with Strategic Partnerships and Vaccination Campaigns
Kwara State has reaffirmed its dedication to boosting agricultural development through strategic collaborations with national agro-allied institutions. The state government emphasized that its initiatives are designed to promote employment, food security, and peaceful coexistence.
Livestock Vaccination and Disease Prevention
During a recent quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, disclosed that the government vaccinated 132,792 ruminants to prevent disease outbreaks. The breakdown includes:
- 110,241 cattle
- 16,009 sheep
- 6,542 goats
Additionally, the state launched a Live Bird Market to support poultry farmers while serving as a surveillance point to curb zoonotic diseases.
Government Commitment to Livestock Sector
Thomas highlighted key achievements under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme. She stated:
“This administration remains committed to revolutionizing agriculture, with livestock production as a critical component.”
Preparations are also underway for a state-wide rabies vaccination campaign to eliminate rabies-related incidents.
Agricultural Partnerships and Infrastructure Development
Afees Abolore Alabi, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, announced partnerships with NIRSAL and other federal agencies to support smallholder farmers and rural communities. He explained:
“Our engagements aim to create a coordinated system that delivers tangible value to farmers.”
The state is also collaborating with NALDA under the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Settlement Initiative to develop large-scale farm settlements. Discussions with Contec Global Agro Limited are ongoing to establish a bio-fertilizer plant and a backyard farming program for women and youths.
Ensuring Transparency in Agricultural Support
To enhance accountability, the government inaugurated a seven-member oversight committee to monitor the distribution of agricultural inputs. The committee ensures resources reach smallholder farmers without diversion.
Agro Input Fair Success
Among the ministry’s key achievements was the successful Agro Input Fair, which connected farmers with certified vendors and provided localized agronomic guidance.