By Bimbola Bamgbose
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to establish ranching facilities aimed at improving the processing of meat in the state.
The governor made this disclosure while receiving a delegation led by the Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, Mr Timothee Witkowski, and the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.
According to Governor Abiodun, the proposed ranching facilities will enable the state to rear, fatten, slaughter, and process meat in a hygienic manner suitable for human consumption.
He further noted that approximately nine thousand to ten thousand cattle are slaughtered daily at Kara Cattle Market to supply Lagos, but the current process is unstructured and lacks adequate hygiene standards.
Governor Abiodun commended SEMMARIS for its contributions to agriculture, food distribution, and logistics, particularly highlighting the success of the Rungis Farmers’ Market in ensuring affordable food supply in France. He expressed optimism that the company’s presence in Ogun State would be transformative, creating economic opportunities across the South-West region.
The governor also emphasized Ogun State’s strategic advantages, including its extensive road networks, rich limestone deposits, and arable land suitable for cultivating cocoa, palm oil, and cotton.
He described the meeting as a continuation of discussions initiated during his visit to France and highlighted the strong business relationship between Nigeria and France. He also noted that President Bola Tinubu is keenly interested in the outcome of the partnership.
Governor Abiodun assured the delegation of his administration’s full support, including incentives to facilitate SEMMARIS’ establishment in the state. He emphasized that the company’s presence would benefit local farmers by providing extension services and serving as an off-taker for their produce.
Speaking on behalf of SEMMARIS, Mr Witkowski expressed the company’s commitment to partnering with the state in modernizing agricultural projects and offering technical support.
He added that once operational, the project would create jobs, enhance food security, and strengthen the agricultural value chain.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Regional Agriculture Counsellor, Sonia Darraco, noted that the French government is committed to supporting the initiative. She stated that the team is currently conducting a feasibility study to identify investment opportunities in the state.
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