Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced plans to establish what he described as Nigeria’s largest dairy and cattle ranches, expanding local milk production, and strengthening agricultural value chains.

The ranches in Ipokia and Yewa South will start with a capacity of 5,000 cattle, establishing Ogun as a key hub for organised livestock production in Nigeria.

Governor Abiodun announced during the All Progressives Congress (APC) Strategic Stakeholders Meeting held at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. 

He explained that the initiative aligns with broader national efforts to modernise agriculture, reduce dependence on imports, and improve livelihoods along the livestock value chain.

“The biggest dairy and cattle ranches will soon be established in Yewa South and Ipokia. This is at the instance of Mr President. These farms will start with 5,000 herds of cattle, and work will begin very soon,” the governor said.

Abiodun noted that the dairy ranches are expected to support local milk processing, create jobs for youth and rural communities, and encourage private-sector investment in animal health, feed production, and cold-chain logistics. 

He added that organised ranching would also help address long-standing challenges around open grazing while improving productivity per animal.

The governor praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms, citing stabilisation of the foreign exchange market, exchange-rate unification, and a rise in foreign reserves to about $45 billion, all of which he believes will attract more investors to agriculture and agribusiness.

Abiodun further highlighted Ogun State’s growing profile as an investment destination, citing federal approvals for projects such as the reconstruction of the Sagamu–Ijebu Ode Road, funding for the Eba oil discovery, and efforts to revive OKLNG.

“Whenever investors express interest in Nigeria, President Tinubu often directs them to Ogun State. His leadership has rekindled hope among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora,” he said.

Reviewing achievements under his administration, the governor said Ogun State has constructed over 1,700 kilometres of roads, delivered more than 7,000 housing units, and upgraded over 400 Primary Healthcare Centres, while also moving closer to becoming an oil-producing state.

Abiodun explained that the APC stakeholders’ meeting was convened to assess progress and strengthen party unity ahead of the electioneering season, urging members to remain united and focused.

Several party leaders attended the meeting, including former Governor Olusegun Osoba, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, lawmakers, ministers, and senior party officials.

Source: Vanguard