In a significant move to bolster its agricultural economy, the Taraba State Government has officially opened new livestock facilities and handed out critical assets to farmers. The event, held on Thursday at the Veterinary Hospital Complex in Jalingo, marks a pivotal step under the World Bank-backed Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES).
New Infrastructure to Transform Animal Health and Productivity
Presiding over the ceremony, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Oliver Namessan, highlighted the project as a core part of the government's strategy for economic development. He stated that the initiative is designed to transform the livestock sector, thereby improving livelihoods and ensuring sustainable food security for the state.
The newly commissioned facilities represent a major upgrade to the state's veterinary and livestock service capabilities. They include:
- A modern Disease Surveillance Laboratory for improved detection and control of animal illnesses.
- A Solar-Powered Cold Chain Facility to ensure safe storage of vaccines and other biologicals.
- An Artificial Insemination Centre aimed at enhancing genetic improvement of livestock herds.
- A Milk Cooling Van to support the development of the dairy value chain.
Professor Namessan explained that this infrastructure will strengthen the overall animal health system and support the One Health approach, which connects the well-being of animals, humans, and the environment.
Assets Distributed to Empower Farmers and Extension Workers
Beyond the fixed infrastructure, the government also distributed productive assets directly to beneficiaries. A total of 200 fodder choppers and 30 motorcycles were handed over to livestock farmers and agricultural extension service providers.
The commissioner noted that these tools are crucial for improving feed processing efficiency, boosting overall livestock productivity, and enhancing the reach of extension services, particularly in remote rural communities. He urged all beneficiaries to use the facilities and assets responsibly to guarantee long-term benefits for their communities.
Building on Past Success for a Resilient Future
The State Project Coordinator for L-PRES, Mr. Hananiah G. Albert, described the commissioning as a significant milestone. He detailed that the project has made targeted investments across key livestock value chains—including cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, and dairy—in all 16 local government areas of Taraba State.
Mr. Albert recalled that the project had previously distributed fodder choppers and pasture seeds to cooperative groups in November 2024. The current phase builds on those earlier interventions to address persistent gaps in the sector.
Looking ahead, he disclosed plans to enter a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) via a Memorandum of Understanding for the effective management and sustainability of the new facilities at the Veterinary Hospital. He assured stakeholders of more investments in infrastructure, capacity building, and market systems in the coming years.
Both officials commended the leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas and reaffirmed the state's commitment to building a resilient, competitive, and inclusive livestock sector for Taraba.
