By Godwin Agia, Jalingo
The Taraba State Government in collaboration with World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), has moved to enhance food security and boost the livestock sector by commissioning key infrastructure and distributing productive assets to beneficiaries.
The equipment donated to farmers include a Disease Surveillance Laboratory, Solar-Powered Cold Chain Facility, Artificial Insemination Centre, and Milk Cooling Van, which will strengthen animal health systems, improve disease detection and control and enhance livestock productivity.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Oliver Namessan, described the initiative as a demonstration of the state government’s commitment to transforming the livestock sector to drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and ensure sustainable food security.
“The infrastructure will strengthen animal health systems, improve disease detection and control, enhance livestock productivity, and support the One Health approach linking animal, human, and environmental health.
“The project has made targeted investments across priority livestock value chains, including cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, and dairy, across the state’s 16 local government areas.
“Disease control should not be left to the government alone. We need continued collaboration with private animal health professionals, community leaders, and farmers to build a more resilient and productive livestock sector,” he said.
State Project Coordinator, Mr. Hananiah G. Albert, noted that the commissioning marked a significant milestone in the implementation of L-PRES in Taraba State.
“What makes these outbreaks more devastating is the delay in detection and the gaps in reporting and coordination among field officers and response systems. This is why L-PRES is working to build a collaborative platform where all stakeholders can work together for effective surveillance and control.
“The project has also distributed 200 fodder choppers and 30 motorcycles to livestock farmers and extension service providers to improve feed processing, boost productivity, and enhance extension service delivery, especially in rural areas.
“The L-PRES project aims to support 40,000 individuals in Taraba State, with 13% of beneficiaries targeted to be women, and will focus on cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry value chains.
“The project is expected to enhance livelihoods, promote climate-smart practices, and improve food security in Taraba State,” he said.
