Ikun Dairy Farm produces 6,000 litres of milk every day as FG backs native dairy push

Ikun Dairy Farm in Ekiti State produces greater than 6,000 litres of contemporary milk every day, in line with its administration, because the Federal Government signalled readiness to assist develop the ability and lower Nigeria’s reliance on imported dairy.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, visited the farm in Ikun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area, on Wednesday, November 4.

He counseled its work in milk manufacturing, cattle breeding and animal well being administration.

Maiha stated Nigeria spends about $1.5 billion yearly on imported dairy merchandise. He harassed the necessity to again investments that elevate home output, create jobs and strengthen meals safety.

He added that the Federal Government is prepared to work with Promasidor Nigeria Limited and the Ekiti State Government to discover increasing the ability.

The farm is operated by Promasidor in partnership with the Ekiti State Government.

Established within the Nineteen Eighties, it remained underutilised for years till a partnership formalised in 2019 introduced contemporary funding, together with an preliminary $5 million from Promasidor.

The farm now covers over 530 hectares and homes greater than 700 cattle, in line with its administration.

Promasidor’s Group Chief Financial Officer and Chairman of the Board of Ikun Dairy Farm Limited, Yomi Adenson, stated the farm bought greater than 160 pregnant heifers to farmers this 12 months, enhancing entry to dairy cattle and boosting native manufacturing capability.

Adenson stated the farm struggled in its early years, shedding scores of imported cattle that might not adapt to the Nigerian atmosphere. Sustained breeding has since produced successive generations higher suited to native circumstances, he stated.

The farm additionally produces a few of its personal feed, together with maize and soybean, and has invested in animal healthcare and improved dairy practices.

Adenson stated unlocking its full potential would require stronger collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Ekiti State Government.

Representing the Ekiti State Governor, the Chief of Staff, Oyeniyi Adebayo, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to an built-in agricultural worth chain spanning crops and livestock. He additionally pointed to the commissioning of a contemporary veterinary clinic to enhance animal healthcare and illness administration.

Promasidor, established in Nigeria in 1993, makes Cowbell, Loya, Miksi, Onga, Top Tea, Twisco and Kremela.