FIC Report (Edo State) – The Benin Chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Edo State Government in developing sustainable Livestock Infrastructure and advancing Agricultural Engineering Solutions aimed at boosting productivity across the Livestock value chain.
This formed the highlight of a courtesy visit by the Association to the Edo State Ministry of Livestock Development in Benin City, where members of the Institute held discussions with the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Ignatius Ikponmwosa Omorodion.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Omorodion disclosed that the Administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is prioritising the rebuilding and revitalisation of infrastructure within the livestock sub-sector as part of efforts to reposition the sector for sustainable growth and economic development.
He described the visit by the Agricultural Engineers as timely and strategic, stressing that collaboration between government and professional bodies remains critical to achieving meaningful progress in livestock development.
According to the Commissioner, the Livestock Sector previously lacked the necessary infrastructure needed for effective operations aside from a few training programmes. He, however, noted that the situation is changing with several projects already underway across the State.
He listed ongoing and proposed projects to include ranch development, construction of eight Poultry houses, six Pig Pens, establishment of a modern Livestock Market in Aviele, Veterinary Clinics, and modern Abattoirs aimed at improving meat processing and animal health services.
Prof. Omorodion emphasised that agricultural engineers have a major role to play in the design, construction, and modification of livestock infrastructure, adding that the expertise of professionals in the sector would greatly enhance efficiency and sustainability.
The Commissioner further stressed the need for stronger synergy among Stakeholders in Government, Academia, and the private sector to ensure Long-term success in the Livestock Industry. He assured members of the Institute of the Ministry’s readiness to maintain close collaboration with the body in actualising the State Government ’s Livestock Development Agenda.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Benin Chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers, Sunday Reagan Ogblechi, said the visit was aimed at establishing a productive working relationship with the Ministry of Livestock Development.
Dr. Ogblechi explained that the delegation comprised Academics, Industrialists, and Equipment fabricators with vast experience in Agricultural Engineering and agribusiness development.
He pledged the support of the institute towards assisting the Edo State Government in developing practical and sustainable Economic Solutions capable of transforming Livestock production and strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises operating within the sector.
According to him, the institute is prepared to contribute technical expertise towards developing a comprehensive roadmap that would address challenges confronting operators across the upstream and downstream segments of the livestock Industry.
Also present at the meeting were the functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Icomiare Adebudo, directors, staff of the ministry, and members of the NIAE delegation.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin.
May 25th, 2026.
