The World Bank has approved the establishment of an agribusiness hub in Ekiti State, a move expected to enhance economic growth and improve the livelihoods of farmers. This development was announced by a delegation from the World Bank Task Team, led by Dr. Emmanuel Sene, during an inspection visit to the Ekiti State Livestock Development Center in Erinfun, Ado-Ekiti.
Dr. Sene explained that the agribusiness hub would serve as a centralized platform for farmers, processors, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. It will provide access to financing, markets, and technology, helping farmers improve productivity, enhance the quality of their produce, and increase their market competitiveness.
“This initiative aligns with the World Bank’s goal of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Agriculture is key to diversifying economies, creating jobs, and addressing food insecurity,” Dr. Sene emphasized.
Livestock Productivity & Resilience Project (L-PRES)
The National Project Coordinator for the Livestock Productivity & Resilience Project (L-PRES), Mr. Sanusi Abubakar, highlighted that the initiative aims to enhance productivity and commercialize the livestock value chain. He revealed plans to upgrade the Ado-Ekiti abattoir into a state-of-the-art facility integrated with a larger livestock production system.
The upgraded facility will include modern slaughter lines, cold storage, meat processing equipment, and waste management systems. Strict sanitation protocols, veterinary inspections, and quality control measures will be prioritized to ensure the highest standards in livestock production.
State Government Initiatives
Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, noted that the state has implemented several livestock production initiatives over the past two years. Among these is the Ekiti Broilers Production Scheme, under which trained youths have produced over 60,000 birds in cycles.
The commissioner also highlighted the renovation of the Livestock Development Center using climate-smart technology to boost productivity and commercialization in livestock farming.
State Project Coordinator for L-PRES, Mr. Olayinka Adedipe, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to revolutionizing livestock production under Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration. He emphasized the potential of agribusiness to drive economic growth and job creation.
Similarly, the Team Lead of the Ekiti Broilers Production Scheme, Mr. Akindele Akintoye, stated that empowering youths through broiler production has fostered self-reliance and contributed to economic development.
This partnership with the World Bank marks a significant step in Ekiti State’s efforts to transform its agricultural sector and enhance its economic impact.