Livestock: Kogi L-PRES launches training on artificial insemination

Lokoja, Sept. 29, 2025 (NAN) The Kogi Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) has launched a one-week training on artificial insemination  for 30 participants, including scientists, veterinarians, and farmers.

Speaking on Monday in Lokoja, Mr Abdulkabir Otaru said the training was hosted at the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) in Zaria, Kaduna State.

Otaru described AI in livestock as a modern technique for controlled breeding and genetic improvement, which is vital for sustainable livestock development.

He explained that the training would help achieve the project’s goals of improving productivity, commercialisation, and resilience of the livestock value chain in Kogi.

“Professionals, including veterinarians, animal scientists, and farmers, were selected for further training on AI by NAPRI Zaria trainers,” Otaru stated.

He stressed that the initiative, supported by Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s administration, aims to boost food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods in Kogi.

Otaru added that trained participants would cascade knowledge to farmer clusters and stakeholders across the state’s livestock value chain.

“The training requires participants’ full commitment to justify government investment and ensure significant impact,” he emphasised.

He noted that the exercise would equip participants with necessary skills to enhance livestock productivity and contribute to the sector’s overall growth.

Also, Dr Abdulsalam Hadi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Livestock Development, praised the governor’s commitment to advancing livestock productivity in the state.

Dr Shaibu Husseini, Director of Veterinary Services, highlighted AI’s potential in animal improvement, especially in boosting milk and meat production.

Similarly, Mr Isah Jimoh, Director of Animal Husbandry, emphasised adopting new methods to meet increasing demand for livestock products.

Mr Adeniyi Oloninisi, L-PRES Officer, also noted AI would enhance productivity, reduce disease risks, and improve animals’ genetic quality.

Dr Tolu Omotugba, Chairman of NVMA, Kogi chapter, commended the government, saying the initiative would empower veterinarians to perform AI and improve livestock production.

Chief Musa Ibrahim, Onu of Ochaja and livestock farmer, applauded L-PRES for supporting farmers through capacity-building training.

He expressed gratitude to the governor and assured that participants would apply the knowledge gained to expand their expertise in AI. (NAN)