By Agrobroadcast Team
Promasidor Nigeria has reiterated its drive to deepen local milk production and reinforce Nigeria’s dairy value chain as part of its alignment with the National Dairy Development Programme, a strategy that is already yielding tangible gains for producers and consumers across the country.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, François Gillet, said Promasidor’s sustained investment in the Ikun Dairy Farm has expanded domestic dairy output while establishing an inclusive and sustainable model that supports broader economic growth.
Gillet explained that the Ikun Dairy Farm was established in 2019 through a partnership with the Ekiti State Government, beginning with an initial investment of about US$5 million. He noted that the company has since made additional capital commitments to scale up operations and strengthen local capacity.
According to him, Promasidor’s focus on the dairy development programme aligns with its long-term objective of localising raw material sourcing, strengthening Nigeria’s dairy ecosystem and ensuring a steady supply of nutritious and affordable milk products for consumers.
Today, the Ikun Dairy Farm houses more than 750 high-yielding cattle, making it the largest dairy farm in the country. The scale of investment made so far, Gillet added, reflects the company’s commitment to building a strong local production base.
The farm operates modern dairy management systems, including routine artificial insemination practices aimed at increasing heifer births and supporting the sustainable, organic expansion of the herd. These operations are supported by experienced veterinary doctors and trained dairy professionals.
Beyond boosting milk production, the Ikun Dairy Farm has emerged as a key driver of socio-economic development in its host community.
It currently provides direct employment for over 200 people, while more than 1,000 indirect jobs have been created across neighbouring communities, contributing to income generation and economic activity in Ekiti State.
To ensure long-term sustainability, Promasidor has also invested in feed security, cultivating over 500 hectares of maize and soya beans to guarantee a consistent supply of high-quality nutrition for its cattle.
The company’s impact on Nigeria’s dairy sector dates back to March 1993, when it introduced Cowbell Milk in sachet form to the Nigerian market, a move that transformed the food and beverage industry and was later adopted by other manufacturers.
In line with its social responsibility agenda, Promasidor extends the benefits of its dairy operations through the “Ikun Milk Day” initiative. The programme provides fresh milk from the Ikun Dairy Farm to primary school pupils in government-owned schools within the Ikun Community on a weekly basis, supporting children’s nutrition and learning outcomes.
Promasidor Nigeria said it remains committed to creating long-term value for consumers, communities and the national economy, while maintaining global quality standards across its product portfolio, which includes Cowbell, Loya, Miksi, Toptea, Onga, Twisco and Kremela.
Situated in Ikun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, the Ikun Dairy Farm spans more than 500 hectares and stands as a practical demonstration of how strategic collaboration under the National Dairy Development Programme can promote food security, job creation and sustainable industrial growth in Nigeria.