The Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Stephen Idehenre, has disclosed that the Department of Animal Husbandry Services in the Ministry has played a pivotal role in promoting the welfare and productivity of livestock and has also addressed various challenges faced by the Animal Husbandry Industry and the Agriculture Sector at large.
He made this disclosure during the 3rd year anniversary celebration of the Department held at the Agricultural Hub, in Benin City.
In his keynote address, Hon. Idehenre, reiterated that the Department had been instrumental in implementing various initiatives aimed at boosting livestock production, improving animal health, and promoting sustainable practices since its inception, adding that the Department had facilitated the adoption of modern farming techniques, offering training programs to livestock farmers in the State.
“The Department has created an enabling environment for livestock farmers to thrive, by collaborating with relevant stakeholders to address issues such as access to quality feed, land, market linkage with infrastructural development. These efforts have contributed to the growth and profitability of the Animal Husbandry Sector in the State.
“Over the past three years, the Department has made remarkable progress in raising awareness about animal welfare and engaging with farmers through workshops, seminars and field visits, also advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in the industry.
“The Department has facilitated the implementation of Heifer Naija Unlock Poultry Production in the State through access to low credit facilities, ready market for poultry products, through the partnership with Amo Farm Siebere, for establishment of a 10,000 capacity production per day.
“The Department has also achieved the facilitation of poultry processing plant at Obayantor in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, facilitation of the allocation of 10 hectares of land each to Bright Field Food and Farms, the Agricultural Commodities Research and Exchange Limited (AGRICOMEL) at Iguobazuwa in Ovia South West Local Government Area, for the production, processing of broiler birds and egg production respectively, as well as the facilitation of 66 hectares of land at Igieduma in Uhunwonde Local Government Area for establishment of cattle ranch, Amongst others”. He explained.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Peter Osagie, who was represented by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Thomas Haruna, commended the Department for the impact contributed and services delivered in moving the Ministry to greater heights, while urging the staff of the Department not to relent in service delivery.
Responding, the Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry Services Department, Mr. Otamere Enodolomwanyi expressed his gratitude to his Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for the creation of the Animal Husbandry Services Department, thanking the Commissioner, for giving them the platform to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. He also expressed his gratitude to the State Consultant on Agricultural Matters, Mr. Peter Aikhuomobhogbe (Rtd), for nurturing and supporting the Department.
Mr. Otamere further thanked other Directors for the support the Department had received so far, stating the various achievements the Department had made since its inception.
Highpoint of the ceremony was the cutting of the 3rd year anniversary celebration cake.
Present at the ceremony were, Edo State Consultant on Agricultural Matters and other dignitaries.
