By Agrobroadcast Team
Ogun State is set to expand its footprint in Nigeria’s livestock industry as Governor Dapo Abiodun unveiled plans for large-scale dairy and cattle ranches in Ipokia and Yewa South Local Government Areas, with a projected starting capacity of 5,000 cattle.
The governor made the disclosure during the All Progressives Congress (APC) Strategic Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, where party leaders gathered to review political developments and chart a course ahead of the coming election cycle.
Abiodun explained that the ranches, described as the largest of their kind in the country, are being established at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and are expected to commence operations soon. He said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance food security, scale up local agricultural output and strengthen value chains within the state.
According to him, the dairy and ranching project represents a strategic intervention aimed at modernising livestock production while creating jobs and stimulating rural economic activity.
The governor used the occasion to commend President Tinubu for what he termed far-reaching economic reforms, noting that recent policy measures have helped stabilise the foreign exchange market, unify exchange rates and improve the nation’s foreign reserves, now estimated at about $45 billion.
He also acknowledged what he described as the President’s continued support for Ogun State, citing federal approvals for projects such as the reconstruction of the Sagamu–Ijebu Ode Road, backing for the Eba oil discovery initiative and efforts to revive the OKLNG project.
Abiodun maintained that the current administration at the federal level has restored optimism among Nigerians both at home and abroad, adding that the performance of the APC-led government has reinforced public confidence in the party.
Highlighting achievements recorded by his administration over the past six years and eight months, the governor said the state has made significant strides across critical sectors.
He listed the construction of over 1,700 kilometres of roads, delivery of more than 7,000 housing units and the upgrade of over 400 Primary Healthcare Centres as part of ongoing development efforts. He further disclosed that Ogun is on track to join the league of oil-producing states.
The governor said the stakeholders’ meeting was convened to foster engagement among party members, evaluate progress and strategise ahead of emerging political contests. He urged members of the party to remain united and avoid divisive tendencies as congresses and other electoral activities approach.
He emphasised that unity, discipline and collective purpose would be crucial as the state moves into another electioneering season, warning that internal discord could undermine the party’s strength.
Among dignitaries present at the meeting were former Governor Olusegun Osoba; Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide; Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi); Senator Shuaib Salisu; and House of Representatives Chief Whip, Ibrahim Isiaka.
Others in attendance included Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Isiaka Salako; State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi; former deputy governors, lawmakers, local government chairmen and other party stakeholders.