Livestock
By Opeyemi Gbemiro
The Kogi Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transform the state livestock sector through modern and sustainable practices.
The Livestock Development Commissioner, Dr Olufemi Bolarinwa, gave the assurance on Thursday in Lokoja during a sensitisation and training workshop on Sasso chicken rearing.
Bolarinwa described the Sasso programme as both timely and impactful, noting that it aligns with the broader vision of the Kogi Government to reposition the livestock industry as a productive and economically viable sector.
The commissioner commended the collaborative efforts of Agro Preciso Nigeria Limited, Kogi L-PRES, and Adva Nigeria Limited for the initiative, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in driving agricultural development.
According to him, the introduction and promotion of improved poultry breeds such as Sasso chickens present significant opportunities for enhancing food security, boosting farmers’ incomes, and improving rural livelihoods.
He explained that Sasso chickens, unlike many indigenous breeds, offer dual-purpose benefits, providing both meat and eggs while remaining adaptable to local environmental conditions.
Bolarinwa emphasised that the training was essential in equipping farmers, extension agents, and other stakeholders with modern poultry management skills, including proper brooding techniques, effective feeding practices, disease control, and overall husbandry.
The commissioner further assured the participants of the ministry’s continued support, stating that the government remains committed to providing the necessary policy framework, technical guidance, and enabling environment to ensure the success of such initiatives.
He added that the ministry would sustain its collaboration with development partners and private sector players to expand improved livestock production systems across the state.
Bolarinwa urged participants to actively engage in the training, ask questions, and apply the knowledge gained to enhance productivity and efficiency in their poultry operations.
In his address, Dr Nurudeen Lawal, the Managing Director (MD) of Agro Preciso Limited, stated that the launch of the Sasso Poultry Sensitisation and Capacity-Building Workshop in Lokoja marks a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s poultry sector through improved genetics and farmer education.
According to him, the initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Agro Preciso Limited and Hendrix Genetics, a global producer of the Sasso poultry breed.
Lawal noted that under the agreement, Agro Preciso was the official agent for Sasso poultry in Nigeria, positioning the company to drive the adoption of resilient and high-performing birds among local farmers.
The MD said that Lokoja was selected as the starting point for the nationwide rollout, reflecting growing confidence in Kogi State’s agricultural potential.
He acknowledged the support of the Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, led by Mr Abdulkabir Otaru, as well as the contributions from key technical partners.
He described the Sasso breed as a transformative option for poultry farmers. Unlike conventional broilers or layers, Sasso birds are dual-purpose and suited to free-range systems, offering both meat and egg production.
“They are also noted for their resilience and adaptability to local environmental conditions.
“The workshop is designed to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge for successful poultry farming.
“The training modules cover breed characteristics, farm business management, and the role of extension services and “Mother Units” in supporting smallholder farmers.
“Sessions are being facilitated by international poultry expert Wilfred Kooij, who is leading discussions on modern and efficient poultry production systems tailored to local realities,” he said.
Lawal also commended the Kogi State Ministry of Livestock Development, which was also commended for its support of the initiative.
He reiterated that the workshop represents the beginning of a long-term commitment to empowering poultry farmers, enhancing profitability, and advancing food security, job creation, and rural economic growth across Kogi and Nigeria.
Mr Ibrahim Arumeh, Mrs Bilikisu Yinusa and Mrs Blessing Ikani, who were participants at the workshop, appreciated the efforts of Kogi Government in strengthening poultry farmers’ capacity.
The participants said that the gesture would enhance the livestock value chain and contribution to the overall development of the state’s livestock sector.
