Awgu Local Government has engaged L-PRES Enugu as Dr.Ifeyinwa Elizabeth Nnajieze, the State Project Coordinator to enhance the profiling of livestock farmers in the community. This initiative aims to improve livestock productivity and resilience, addressing challenges faced by farmers while fostering economic growth through targeted support in key value chains like beef cattle and small ruminants. The project aligns with L-PRES’s mission to create a sustainable livestock economy in Nigeria, ultimately benefiting rural households and enhancing their livelihoods.
Awgu Local Government in Enugu State, Nigeria, is home to 40 autonomous communities, which can significantly enhance livestock farming. This potential stems from the communities’ ability to support local agricultural initiatives, such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), aimed at improving livestock productivity and commercialization. Livestock farming contributes to rural development by providing food, income, and employment opportunities. By leveraging community resources and targeted interventions, Awgu can increase the number of livestock farmers and bolster economic stability in the region.
Dr. Ifeyinwa Elizabeth Nnajieze, the State Project Coordinator L-PRES Enugu emphasized that the profiling exercise for livestock farmers in Awgu local government will enhance their access to critical veterinary services, improving disease management and overall livestock health. This initiative aims to increase farmers’ awareness of available resources, thereby boosting productivity and profitability in the sector. Additionally, it encourages collaboration among farmers, fostering a community approach to tackling agricultural challenges and enhancing economic stability in the region. She was also able to clarify their questions regarding farming practices and challenges. Her engagement focused on improving understanding of livestock management and addressing the difficulties farmers face in adopting sustainable practices. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance productivity and working conditions in the livestock sector, which is critical for food security and economic stability in developing regions.
The State Project Coordinator presented detailed data sheets to the Deputy Chairman, outlining the Local Government’s current status within the value chain. This briefing likely included progress reports, and strategic recommendations.
Hon. Dr. Stanley Ezediuto, Deputy Chairman of Awgu local government, has expressed positive views about the L-PRES (Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support) project, seeing it as an extension of existing government programs in the state. He believes the project aligns well with the Governor’s vision for the state, which he describes as ambitious and high-quality.
According to Dr. Ezediuto, the Governor places a strong emphasis on productivity. In line with this focus, the L-PRES project aims to provide training to improve productivity across all value chains in the livestock sector.
The L-PRES project is indeed designed to enhance livestock productivity, resilience, and commercialization of selected value chains in Nigeria. By providing training and support across various aspects of livestock farming, including animal health, genetic improvement, nutrition, and market development. Farmers in Awgu expressed satisfaction with the recent visit from the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project. The L-PRES Enugu team were on ground to educate Awgu livestock farmers on self-profiling techniques with the link shared.