The Ondo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project has trained no fewer than 1,000 livestock farmers on modern farming techniques and record keeping to boost 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 of training in three value chains — poultry; goat and sheep; and pig — were drawn from the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
The SPC explained that the training and skills gained at the FFS would enable farmers to work together and transform agriculture into a more productive, profitable and climate-resilient sector.
“Gone are the days when farmers used old methods of farming. Farmers are moving towards technology all over the world.
“Ondo State farmers, especially livestock farmers, should be exceptional for their own benefit and for the country at large,” he said.
Also speaking, 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 of the Animal Husbandry Services Department in the ministry, also urged them to be ambassadors of modern agricultural practices in their communities.
He said the government would continue to collaborate with development partners such as L-PRES to ensure that farmers across the state have 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.
“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 production in the state.
“We will implement everything we have been taught on our various farms and follow all the advice given to ensure profitable production.
“With this training, there is a better future for livestock farmers in the state,” he said.
It was reported that the L-PRES project also provided basic tools to all the farmers to support their activities on their farms.
