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Edo State Livestock Productivity & Resilience Support - Project L PRES, Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Edo Agriculture Hub, Oko Ogba Road, Benin City., Bénin (2026)

Q: What is the address?

Livestock Productivity And Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Edo Agriculture Hub, Oko Ogba Road, Benin City.

08/09/2025

Edo L-PRES Conducts Beneficiary Feedback Tour Across Three Senatorial Districts

Benin City, 8th September, 2025 - The Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Edo L-PRES) has successfully concluded a Beneficiary Feedback Tour across the three senatorial districts of Edo State, engaging livestock farmers, extension agents, butchers, and veterinary experts to assess the impact of its interventions.

The tour, which ran from 4th to 8th September 2025, was designed to capture firsthand accounts of project beneficiaries and document how L-PRES interventions have contributed to improving livestock practices across the state.

In Edo North Senatorial District, eight beneficiaries were interviewed, including extension agents Idugboe Osasumwen Elvis, Asekome Victor Enoch, and Ainerua Oshioke Nereus; poultry farmers Abubakar Halimat Qhumayua, Harun Muhammed, and John Osilama; small ruminant farmer Alhaji Momodu A. O.; and Dr. Dagana A.J. Donald, a veterinary doctor at the newly completed Veterinary Clinic in Aviele.

From Edo Central, the team engaged Ainabebholo Sunday (poultry farmer), Fortune (extension agent), and Mrs. Aikorie Progress (piggery farmer).

The Edo South segment of the tour took place at the Government Abattoir, Ikpoba Slope, where the project interacted with Loveth Adodo and Kingsley Balogun (butchers), as well as Mrs. Oni Johnson, a poultry farmer who was interviewed at her residence.

Beneficiaries across all districts expressed appreciation for the project’s support, particularly in the area of capacity building through training programs. They highlighted that the knowledge gained has significantly improved their business practices. Key skills adopted include:

Improved livestock feeding methods.
Poultry beak de-beaking techniques.
Accurate record-keeping and financial discipline.
Enhanced animal husbandry practices.

Speaking during the exercise, beneficiaries emphasized that these trainings have translated into better livestock productivity, improved animal welfare, and stronger business resilience. However, they also expressed the need for complementary interventions such as access to veterinary inputs, starter packs, and infrastructure to sustain the gains already made.

The feedback tour underscores Edo L-PRES’s commitment to accountability and inclusive participation in the livestock value chain. Findings from the tour will guide future interventions while also providing authentic beneficiary success stories that reflect the impact of the project on rural livelihoods.

The exercise marks another milestone in the project’s mission to improve livestock productivity, enhance resilience, and contribute to the economic development of Edo State.

30/08/2025

Edo L-PRES Strengthens Conflict Resolution/Grievance Redress Mechanism Committee to Improve Livelihoods of Livestock Farmers

Benin City, 20th August, 2025 - The Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Edo L-PRES) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the livelihoods of livestock farmers while contributing to the overall economic growth of the State.

This was disclosed by the Director of Animal Husbandry Services, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Osayande Sunday, during the L-PRES Conflict Resolution/Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) Committee Meeting held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry.

According to him, L-PRES—being a World Bank-assisted initiative—aims at transforming the livestock sector with the development objective of increasing productivity, commercialization, and resilience. He further emphasized that the project’s interventions are also geared toward promoting peace, security, and stability across Edo State.

He charged committee members to work closely with relevant stakeholders in identifying potential conflicts, particularly disputes between farmers and herders, while devising preventive measures and implementing effective strategies for mitigating existing tensions.

In his presentation, the Edo L-PRES Social Safeguard Officer, Mr. Gabriel Okhiria, explained that the State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) is responsible for coordinating the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM). He noted that members of the State-level GRM Committee are empowered to handle grievances, adding that each member will serve as a focal point in managing GRM activities on a rotational basis for six months.

Mr. Okhiria also highlighted that crisis prevention and conflict mitigation are embedded under Component 3, Subcomponent 3.2 of the project, which seeks to build capacity for conflict prevention and resolution with a strong focus on farmer–herder conflicts. He explained that the subcomponent supports activities at the local, national, and transnational levels to mitigate resource-based conflicts, strengthen local conflict-resolution capacity, and facilitate policy dialogue on addressing root causes of disputes.

During the meeting, the roles and responsibilities of the State and project-site GRCs, the structure and constitution of the Central GRC at the State level, membership requirements, and meeting procedures were also clarified by the Social Safeguard Officer.

The session featured presentations of conflict analysis reports by committee members, identification of key issues, and discussions on potential solutions. Action plans were further developed to address pressing conflict-related challenges within the livestock sector.

In his remarks, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Haruna Thomas, recommended the creation of a WhatsApp platform to enhance timely information sharing and collaboration among members. He also called for more frequent interactive sessions of this nature to strengthen stakeholder engagement.

The meeting had in attendance key representatives from security agencies, farmer and herder associations, relevant ministries, NGOs, and Edo L-PRES officials, including: Eki Vassilis (NSCDC rep.), Mr. Adamu Haruna (Cattle Dealer), Mohd Abubakar (PRO Miyalti Allah), Okpekpe Blessed (All Farmers Association of Nigeria – Treasurer), Mrs. Agho Loveth (Animal Husbandry Officer), Mrs. Agbonze Uche (Ministry of Education), McDonald John (Edo L-PRES), Sule Fatima (Fedego Foundation), Idahor Marcus (Edo L-PRES, M\&E), Iyoha Vivian (Animal Husbandry Officer), among others.

20/08/2025

UNIVERSITY OF BENIN STRENGTHENS COLLABORATION WITH L-PRES ON VETERINARY TEACHING HOSPITAL DEVELOPMENT

Benin City, Edo State - August 20th 2025 - The Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, on behalf of the management of the University, received the Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) team on Monday18th August, 2025 during a courtesy visit aimed at fostering collaboration in support of the proposed University of Benin Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UBVTH).

This engagement follows several months of correspondence and advocacy led by the Director of the proposed UBVTH, Professor Maxwell N. Opara, who has consistently sought partnership with L-PRES. The initiative is in line with the institutional strengthening mandate of the project, which forms a key component of its World Bank–designed framework.

During the visit, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Victor 'Ogie Igbineweka, who represented the Vice Chancellor, warmly welcomed the L-PRES team and reaffirmed the University’s readiness to collaborate fully with the project. He underscored the timeliness and relevance of the intervention, noting that the University of Benin is the only institution in the South-South region designated to host a Veterinary Teaching Hospital. He added that the proposed collaboration will play a crucial role in enhancing livestock productivity, commercialization, and resilience within the region.

The State Project Coordinator of Edo L-PRES, Mrs. Ikpikhumi Aghaku Betsy, was unavoidably absent due to an official engagement outside the state. She was ably represented by Mr. Mcdonald Eyo-ebiowei John, the Project’s Gender-Based Violence Officer, who led the L-PRES delegation for the visit.

As part of the engagement, the L-PRES team proceeded to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, where they successfully conducted a profiling exercise for academic staff and technologists. This exercise, which is a requirement under the World Bank’s implementation design, is critical in ensuring that intended beneficiaries are properly identified and prepared for participation in the intervention.

The team, guided by Professor Opara, also inspected the proposed permanent site for the Faculty and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital within the University premises. The site visit provided an opportunity to identify specific areas where L-PRES support could be strategically directed to strengthen teaching, research, and service delivery capacities.

In a note of appreciation, Professor Opara expressed gratitude to the L-PRES team, stating:

“On behalf of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Benin, I sincerely appreciate your team from L-PRES for their visit and the successful conduct of profiling for our academic staff and technologists. Their professionalism, dedication, and collaborative spirit have provided valuable insights that will strengthen our capacity for teaching, research, and service delivery. We look forward to continued partnership and future engagements that will further advance the development of veterinary education and practice.”

The visit concluded with a commemorative group photograph involving the L-PRES team, officials of the University of Benin, and members of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The photograph served as a symbolic marker of the beginning of what promises to be a mutually beneficial partnership.

With this development, the University of Benin is poised to benefit from targeted interventions that will strengthen the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and position Edo State as a hub for livestock productivity and resilience in Nigeria’s South-South region.

Report by

Marcus B. Unuebho
Communication/ICT Officer, Edo L-PRES

18/08/2025

Edo L-PRES Steering Committee Holds Second Meeting, Puts Project Management on Track for Greater Impact

Benin City, August 15, 2025 — The Edo State Steering Committee (SSC) of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) has held its second meeting for the year 2025 at the Conference Hall of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Government House, Benin City.

The high-powered session, chaired by Golden Ugbodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, stood out for its robust engagement, as the Committee drilled the State Project Coordination Team on financial accountability, procurement procedures, and the overall performance of the project as ranked in the last World Bank post-mission report.

Representing His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, the Special Adviser steered the deliberations with striking managerial dexterity, ensuring that the Committee remained focused on both accountability and progress. His guidance gave the meeting its successful tone and set the pace for implementation practices that would further strengthen the project’s delivery of its development objectives (PDO).

The meeting featured representatives of key stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Edo State Piggery Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (PFAN), Mr. Uwa Oviawe; Chairman of the Poultry Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (PAN), Mr. Jolly Idelegbegbagbon; a representative of AMO Processing Farm; and senior government officials from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies. Also in attendance was the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Sunday Osayande, who doubles as Chairman of the State Technical Committee (STC) for L-PRES.

Sessions of the meeting captured the Committee’s mandate review, progress updates, financial reports, and discussions on ongoing projects, as well as challenges and successes. The “New Business and Emerging Trends” segment was particularly illuminating, with AMO Processing Farm disclosing its capacity of 2.5 million birds per cycle, hatching weekly, and identifying opportunities for collaboration. Their representative recommended L-PRES support for low-cost poultry housing schemes to prepare farmers for offtake opportunities.

Stakeholders also raised concerns. PAN Chairman, Mr. Idelegbegbagbon, lamented the historical neglect of poultry farmers in similar interventions. In response, L-PRES State Project Coordinator, Mrs. Ikpikhumi Aghaku Betsy, pledged to ensure that poultry farmers and other relevant stakeholders would henceforth be included in subsequent interventions.

Similarly, the Program Manager of Edo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Mr. Princewill Igbinedion, called for greater standardization in project implementation to strengthen inclusivity.

In his closing remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor expressed concern over whether project management was overly fixated on financial processes rather than on delivering tangible results to the people of Edo State. He emphasized that inclusiveness and accountability are non-negotiable for achieving the project’s objectives.

The Committee resolved to set up a special team to overhaul financial documentation and procurement processes and interpret submitted financial statements. The team was mandated to deliver its findings within two weeks, in line with the directive of the Executive Governor.

The meeting, which lasted nearly two and a half hours, ended on a high note with a group photograph, symbolizing unity of purpose among stakeholders.

By putting the L-PRES management on their toes, the Edo State Steering Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the project succeeds in meeting its Project Development Objective (PDO) — strengthening livestock productivity, resilience, and food security in Edo State.

By

Marcus B. Unuebho
CICT Officer, Edo L-PRES

06/08/2025

UNIBEN Veterinary Department Seeks Collaboration with Edo L-PRES

Benin City, August 1, 2025 — In a significant move aimed at strengthening academic and professional collaboration for improved veterinary healthcare delivery in Edo State, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Benin (UNIBEN), met with officials of the Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.

The meeting, which held at the L-PRES State Coordinating Office in Benin City, had in attendance key officials from both institutions. Representing UNIBEN were Prof. Maxwell Okpara, Head of the University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital; Dr. Ike, Head of Anatomy; and Dr. Ifeanyi, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. From the L-PRES team were the State Project Coordinator, the Value Chain Development Officer, the Animal Husbandry Services Officer, the Extension Services Officer, and the Animal Health Services Officer.

According to Prof. Okpara, the university reached out through an official correspondence to request a partnership with L-PRES. He emphasized the faculty’s desire to work closely with the project to improve veterinary services and contribute more effectively to community development.

The State Project Coordinator welcomed the delegation warmly and acknowledged the importance of such collaboration, especially in a sector as critical as animal health. She directed relevant component officers of L-PRES to review the request and explore ways to incorporate it into their individual workplans. She further assured the UNIBEN team that the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine would be invited to participate in future trainings and capacity-building activities organized by L-PRES.

In his remarks, Prof. Maxwell Okpara expressed gratitude for the reception and reaffirmed the faculty’s readiness to collaborate with the L-PRES project. He appealed for support in upgrading the university’s veterinary clinic to meet contemporary standards, noting that the clinic plays a vital role in providing services to the public.

The meeting concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing the beginning of what promises to be a productive partnership between Edo L-PRES and the University of Benin’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

01/08/2025

Edo L-PRES Trains 78 Extension Agents on Emerging Trends in Animal Husbandry and Alternative Feed Sources

Benin City, July 2025 — In a significant stride towards improving livestock productivity and resilience in Edo State, the Edo Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) project has concluded a five-day intensive training for extension agents on Emerging Trends in Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHPs), including Feed Formulation and the use of plant waste and residues as alternative feed sources for small ruminants and pigs.

Held at ADJ Royalty Hotels and Suites, Boundary Road, Benin City, the training drew 78 extension agents from across the state. The goal: equip frontline agricultural officers with up-to-date knowledge and skills to better support livestock farmers.

The event kicked off with an opening ceremony led by Mrs. Ikpikhumi Aghaku Betsy, Edo State Project Coordinator, who provided an overview of the training and emphasized the critical role of extension agents in transforming animal husbandry practices at the grassroots.

Also present was Mr. Emmanuel O. Okonedo, the State Animal Husbandry Officer, who warmly welcomed participants, and Dr. Ugwu Onwuamaeze, Animal Husbandry Officer from the National Coordination Office, Abuja. Dr. Onwuamaeze encouraged participants to be fully engaged, highlighting that the training would enhance their efficiency in supporting local farmers.

In her address, Mrs. Aghaku Betsy urged the extension officers to actively participate in all sessions, noting: “You can only give to the farmers what you have. This training is a golden opportunity to acquire practical knowledge that will transform livestock practices in our state.”

Mr. Princewill Igbinedion, in a goodwill message, commended the L-PRES team for organizing what he described as “life-transforming events” and reaffirmed the importance of such capacity-building efforts for sustainable agricultural development.

On the second day, the official training manual was launched and distributed to participants. Mr. Howard Naboya, Edo State L-PRES Extension Officer, explained the significance of the manual, encouraging extension agents to study it thoroughly as a critical tool for their fieldwork.

The manuals were formally presented by the State Project Coordinator to Mr. Peter Ogbeifun, symbolizing the transfer of knowledge to those directly engaged with farmers.

The training ended with the presentation of certificates of participation, with participants expressing appreciation for the initiative. Mrs. Tina Okonedo, one of the beneficiaries, shared her enthusiasm: “I’ve learned so much, especially about alternative feed sources. As an extension agent, I’m excited to take this knowledge back to my farmers.”

Mr. Ebuka Onuoha also expressed gratitude, stating that the training came at a crucial time when livestock farmers needed innovative solutions.

The event closed on a high note with photo sessions, handshakes, and warm farewells, marking the end of another impactful milestone by Edo L-PRES in strengthening agricultural resilience in the state.

01/08/2025

Edo L-PRES Inaugurates Grievance Redress Mechanism Committees Across Seven LGAs

Benin City, 22 July 2025 — As part of its commitment to transparency, accountability, and grassroots inclusion, the Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project has successfully inaugurated Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) Committees across seven Local Government Areas where key project interventions are ongoing.

The sensitization and inauguration exercise was designed to establish localized structures for receiving, addressing, and resolving concerns or complaints that may arise during project implementation—particularly in communities hosting infrastructure projects such as abattoir construction and rehabilitation.

Oredo LGA

The inauguration tour began in Oredo Local Government Area, where the L-PRES team was welcomed by the Local Government Chairperson, introduced by the Head of Department (HOD) for Agriculture. The State Project Coordinator outlined the objectives of the L-PRES project and emphasized the role of the GRM committee in fostering transparency and dispute resolution. The inauguration was held in the council hall, followed by a group photograph with stakeholders.

Uhunmwonde LGA

At Uhunmwonde, the team met with the Local Government Chairman, who is already familiar with the L-PRES project. He expressed appreciation for the project’s efforts and pledged his support, particularly with the ongoing construction work in the area. Butchers present at the meeting also expressed willingness to support the project by protecting construction sites. The GRM committee was formally inaugurated, with the Chairman named as a member.

Esan Central LGA – Irrua

In Esan Central, the team visited community leaders in Irrua. Though the chief was unavoidably absent, his secretary’s assistant received the delegation. The team provided updates on construction activities and assured the community of transparent collaboration. A youth leader raised concerns over the marginalization of their community in previous interventions, to which the L-PRES team responded with assurances of inclusivity. A local health official also addressed attendees on the health benefits of the project. Despite the absence of some stakeholders, the GRM committee was formally inaugurated.

Esan North East LGA – Uromi

In Uromi, Esan North East LGA, the L-PRES team engaged stakeholders at the abattoir rehabilitation center. Present were the chairman of the butchers’ union and the HOD for Agriculture. The Value Chain Officer spoke on the importance of the GRM as a conflict resolution mechanism during construction. He also emphasized the importance of profiling, stating that only profiled individuals would benefit from the project. The GRM committee, comprising the woman leader, youth leader, chairman, and head of security, was inaugurated.

Etsako West LGA – Jattu Uzairue

At Jattu Uzairue, in Etsako West LGA, the team was received by palace chiefs, youth leaders, and local government representatives. The traditional ruler was absent, but the gathering proceeded under the guidance of the chiefs. After customary greetings and prayers, the L-PRES team explained the GRM's purpose and the overall benefits of the project. Veterinary expert Dr. Osas elaborated on the health implications and advantages of the intervention. The inauguration followed, and photographs were taken with community leaders.

Esan West LGA – Ekpoma

In Ekpoma, the headquarters of Esan West LGA, the L-PRES team was warmly received by the Chairman, Hon. Godsent Agboibo, who was personally on ground to welcome the delegation. He expressed his support for the project and pledged to work closely with the L-PRES team to ensure successful implementation in the area. The inauguration of the GRM committee was conducted with active participation from local stakeholders, marking a strong commitment from the LGA leadership to the objectives of the project.

Owan East LGA

The final stop of the inauguration tour was Owan East, where the L-PRES team met with community stakeholders to conduct a sensitization session and inaugurate the GRM committee. Emphasis was laid on the importance of having a functioning redress structure in place to address issues promptly as construction activities proceed.

About the GRM
The Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) is a vital accountability tool under the L-PRES framework. It enables community members to raise concerns, provide feedback, and seek redress for grievances arising from the implementation of project activities. It is especially critical for infrastructure-related interventions that directly affect community spaces and livelihoods.

With the inauguration of GRM committees across these seven local government areas, Edo L-PRES reaffirms its dedication to inclusive development, community engagement, and the smooth delivery of its livestock productivity interventions.

30/07/2025

Edo L-PRES Trains 120 Beneficiaries on Modern Abattoir Waste Management Practices
NPC Dr. Sanusi Abubakar Urges Participants to Put Knowledge to Practical Use
Benin City, Edo State | July 30, 2025 —
In a major step towards improving public health, environmental sustainability, and meat hygiene standards in Edo State, the Edo Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project has successfully concluded a 4-day intensive training on Waste Management in Abattoirs. The training, held from 22nd to 25th July 2025 at ADJ Royalty Hotels and Suites, Boundary Road, GRA, Benin City, brought together 120 beneficiaries from across the state, including abattoir operators, veterinary professionals, and livestock stakeholders.
The training was facilitated by Argon Environmental Ltd, a leading firm in environmental sustainability, and featured a rich blend of technical sessions, regulatory insights, and operational best practices—all tailored to address the growing concern of waste mismanagement in abattoirs.
A highlight of the programme was the visit of the National Project Coordinator (NPC) of L-PRES, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar, whose presence underscored the national significance of the intervention. Coinciding with his visit to Edo for an engagement with Private Veterinary Practitioners, Dr. Abubakar seized the opportunity to meet with the training participants on the second day of the session.
In his address, the NPC charged beneficiaries to "take ownership of the knowledge shared and implement it diligently in their various slaughterhouses and farms." He noted that sustainable livestock production cannot thrive without addressing environmental and health risks posed by improper waste disposal.
Dr. Abubakar was accompanied by the Edo State Project Coordinator, Mrs. Ikpikhumi Aghaku Betsy, and a team of high-level delegates from Abuja, further signaling federal commitment to livestock reform in Nigeria.
Expert-Led Sessions with Practical Focus
The training featured a robust lineup of expert presentations, including:
• "Regulatory Requirements, Compliance and Stakeholder Collaboration for Waste Management" by
Barr. (Mrs.) Nkechi Alli — Legal Practitioner and Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Benin.
She emphasized the legal framework governing abattoir operations and the need for strict compliance with national environmental laws.
• "Environmental and Health Impacts of Improper Abattoir Waste Management" by
Prof. Emmanuel Esosa Imarhiagbe, Ph.D in Environmental and Public Health.
Prof. Imarhiagbe highlighted the ripple effects of poor waste practices on communities and livestock health.
• "Infrastructure and Operational Best Practices for Abattoirs" by
Dr. Nosa Omoregbe Obayagbona, who provided in-depth insights on slab design, water supply systems, and the importance of staff welfare facilities in abattoir efficiency.
L-PRES Leading the Charge for a Cleaner, Safer Meat Industry
The Edo L-PRES Project, a World Bank-assisted initiative, continues to implement transformative activities across the livestock value chain, from productivity enhancement to resilience building. This training on waste management is part of the project's wider environmental and public health safety agenda.
Participants commended the organizers for the comprehensive and interactive sessions, expressing optimism that the knowledge gained will help elevate the standards of abattoir operations in their localities.
As Edo L-PRES pushes forward with such impactful interventions, it is clear that the future of livestock farming in Edo is moving steadily toward sustainability, safety, and service to public good.

25/07/2025

Edo State Boosts Livestock Health Drive as SA to Governor Graces L-PRES Engagement with Private Veterinarians

Marcus B. Unuebho

Benin City, July 22, 2025 – In a landmark move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s livestock health system and deepening collaboration between public and private sectors, the National Project Coordinator (NPC) of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Dr. Sanusi Abubakar, led a high-powered federal delegation to Edo State for a strategic engagement with Private Veterinary Practitioners.

The impactful session held in Benin City featured robust discussions around rural veterinary service delivery, employment generation, and animal health resilience. In a powerful show of support, Mr. Golden Ugbodu, Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, graced the event on behalf of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, lending the weight of the state government to the federal initiative.

The NPC’s delegation included key national figures such as Dr. Mustapha Muhammad, National Animal Health Specialist; the National Project Accountant; and officials from the L-PRES Operations Unit. Addressing the forum of private veterinary professionals, Dr. Abubakar underscored the urgent need for collaboration, given the striking imbalance in manpower.

> “Only 11,000 veterinarians are currently registered to serve over 60 million livestock across Nigeria,” Dr. Mustapha noted during his technical presentation, which introduced the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for animal healthcare. “Of this number, just 15% are in government service, while the remaining 85% are in private practice. Our goal is to bridge this gap through strategic collaboration, especially in rural communities where livestock concentration is highest.”

The PPP model aims to incentivize rural service delivery, providing both financial motivation and structured support for veterinarians willing to serve in underserved and hard-to-reach areas. The initiative is in alignment with the national agenda to improve livestock health, boost productivity, and ensure food security.

In his remarks, Mr. Golden Ugbodu emphasized the Edo State Government’s deep interest in the program, referencing the invitation letter to the Governor which highlighted employment opportunities for youths, women, and persons with disabilities.

> “This particular clause captured the Governor’s heart,” he said. “It aligns perfectly with our administration’s vision—to create meaningful jobs and steer young people away from negative vices and into sustainable livelihoods.”

Also present at the session was the Edo State L-PRES Project Coordinator, Mrs. Ikpikhumi Aghaku Betsy, alongside senior implementation staff including Dr. Thomas Haruna, who formally welcomed the federal delegation and introduced the National Project Coordinator to the audience of veterinarians.

Following the presentations, a brief interactive session allowed private veterinarians to share insights and ask questions. The SA to the Governor, Mr. Ugbodu, reiterated the state’s full commitment to supporting the L-PRES project and its goals.

Dr. Sanusi Abubakar rounded off the engagement with closing remarks, thanking the practitioners for their attendance and reaffirming the project’s readiness to work closely with them. As a gesture of goodwill, he presented the official L-PRES newsletter to the Special Adviser before the gathering proceeded outside for a commemorative photo session.

This engagement marks a critical milestone in federal-state synergy and sets a strong precedent for inclusive livestock development efforts across Nigeria.

CICT Unit, Edo L-PRES.

Edo State Livestock Productivity & Resilience Support - Project L PRES

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