The Ekiti State Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS), operating from the Ilu Eye Aggregation Hub at the Textile Complex, Ado Ekiti, has begun training and empowering youths to venture into poultry production while strengthening local maize supply chains.

Through EBOPS, youths receive hands-on training in broiler production, while Ilu Eye Agro Trading has stepped in to solve the maize supply challenge that has long plagued commercial poultry farmers in the state. 

In January, the company purchased and stored maize from farmers and youth-led farms across Ekiti, reducing the state’s previous dependence on northern maize imports.

“This initiative shows how wealth and jobs can be created through synchronisation of the agribusiness value chain and market linkages,” said a spokesperson from Ilu Eye Trading. 

“We now produce enough maize to meet local poultry demands; the challenge was the lack of structured aggregation and storage platforms, which we have now addressed.”

In a move to formalise the arrangement, Ilu Eye Trading is preparing to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter. 

This will ensure a steady yearly supply of maize to support commercial poultry farmers.

Source: Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security

Image Credit: Biodun Oyebanji