Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to establish ranching facilities in the state aimed at improving meat production and processing.
The governor made this known during a meeting with the Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, Mr. Timothee Witkowski, and the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, who paid him a courtesy call at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the establishment of these ranching facilities will ensure a more hygienic, efficient, and sustainable meat production process. He explained, “We have an immediate plan to set up ranching facilities here in Ogun State where we will rear cattle, fatten them, slaughter, and process them properly. We are also going to do piggery as well. Already, we have a lot of poultry, but we will get them organized.”
The governor further highlighted the current challenges in the meat industry, noting that while about 9,000 to 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at Kara Cattle Market to supply Lagos, the process is often done haphazardly and without sufficient attention to hygiene. “Although about 9,000 to 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at Kara Cattle Market to cater to Lagos markets, they are done haphazardly and not hygienic enough for human consumption,” Abiodun stated.
He lauded SEMMARIS for its significant role in the agriculture and logistics sectors, particularly its impact on food distribution in France. “The arrival of SEMMARIS in the state will be a game changer. It will create opportunities for Ogun State and the entire southwest region,” he added.
Governor Abiodun also mentioned the state’s strategic advantages, including its extensive road network and fertile land suitable for the cultivation of crops like cocoa, palm oil, and cotton. The governor emphasized the potential for mutual growth, noting that President Bola Tinubu is keen on the success of the collaboration between Nigeria and France.
In his remarks, Mr. Witkowski expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “Starting with Ogun State is a good idea because of the potential and the strategic location of the state. There is a lot of land available, and the state government has a strong vision for the region.”
Witkowski highlighted the importance of modernizing agricultural projects, stating that the project will provide job opportunities, enhance food security, and improve the agricultural value chain.
Sonia Darraco, the Regional Agriculture Counsellor at the French Embassy, assured that France is ready to support the venture, sharing that the company is conducting a feasibility study to identify potential business opportunities for investment in Ogun State. “We are ready to support the company in its mission,” she said.
This partnership is expected to strengthen agricultural development in Ogun State while addressing key challenges in the meat production and processing sector.