Oyo State government has initiated a comprehensive training program on artificial insemination for over 100 livestock farmers, aiming to lower meat costs and enhance the quality of livestock products.
Organized by the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), this initiative seeks to introduce modern technologies and practices to improve livestock management in the region.
Dr. Debo Akande, Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agribusiness, underscored the importance of this training, noting that it represents a significant advancement in livestock farming practices.
He stated that by incorporating advanced reproductive techniques, the state is set to increase both the quantity and quality of beef and milk production, ultimately making these products more accessible to the public.
The training covers a wide range of topics, including reproductive health, semen collection and preservation, and the practical application of insemination techniques.
Dr. Akande emphasized the need for modern approaches in livestock rearing, pointing out that traditional methods have not fully maximized the potential of cattle and goat farming.
He believes that understanding and applying artificial insemination will lead to higher productivity and better-quality meat and milk.
This training is a component of OYSADA’s broader agribusiness strategy, which is supported by the World Bank.
The program aims to tackle the rising cost of beef and improve overall livestock productivity in Oyo State.
The meat industry in Nigeria, with beef as its primary product, is a substantial market, projected to reach US$40.74 billion in 2024, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 12.01% from 2024 to 2029.
By 2029, the market volume is expected to reach 4.86 billion kilograms, reflecting a steady increase in demand and production.
