The Ondo State Livestock Productivity Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) has commenced the training of 100 lead livestock farmers on advanced fodder production to enhance commercialisation and climate resilience in the state.

The two-day capacity-building programme, held on Tuesday in Ilara-Mokin, Ifedore Local Government Area, focused on sustainable hydroponic fodder production and the effective treatment of crop residues. 

Olufemi Adeogun, the L-PRES State Project Coordinator, explained that the 100 participants were selected from all three senatorial districts to serve as “knowledge multipliers” who will retrain other farmers in their respective communities.

According to Mr Adeogun, the training addresses persistent challenges such as rising commercial feed costs and seasonal shortages that often cripple productivity during the dry season. 

The curriculum covers low-cost, proven technologies including hay and silage production, which allow farmers to stabilise their feed supply year-round. 

“This intervention is both strategic and timely for the development of the livestock sector in Ondo State,” he noted.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Foluke Daramola, commended the initiative for its focus on value addition. 

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening extension services and helping farmers access new markets. 

Representatives from the Pig, Sheep, and Goat Farmers Associations also applauded the project, stating that the move would significantly reduce production risks and increase rural incomes.

Source: People Gazette