……. Partners NYSC to accelerate livestock sector growth

By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

As part of efforts to empower the youths and unlock the economic potential in the livestock sector, Kwara State Government is set to launch a youth-focused livestock entrepreneurship programme, designed to train, equip and fund aspiring agripreneurs across the State.

The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs Oloruntoyosi Thomas, disclosed this during her courtesy visit to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp at Yikpata in Edu Local Government Area of the State.

The Commissioner, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Yahaya Mohammed, explained that the initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to turn Kwara into a hub of livestock innovation, youth enterprise and rural prosperity.

She added that the Ministry is partnering with the NYSC to leverage the Yikpata camp as a training ground for both corps members and other youths that are interested in livestock agribusiness.

She said: “Our vision is clear; transforming young people from job seekers into job creators in the livestock space.

“This collaboration with NYSC will enable us to deliver hands-on training in livestock production, business development and access to finance, all within a structured and supportive environment.”

The Commissioner disclosed that the programme, slated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025, will be powered through a public-private partnership, already secured by the State Government.

Participants, according to her, will undergo an intensive three-month training, after which they will receive starter packs and input supports to launch or scale their ventures.

Hon. Thomas added that, while the programme will actively engage corps members, it is not limited to them, adding that; “during off-camp seasons, the NYSC facility will be opened up to other young people across the State, who are eager to venture into livestock agribusiness.”

In his response, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, welcomed the initiative and pledged the Corps’ full support, explaining that the camp is well positioned to accommodate the needs of the programme, while urging the government to prioritise security around the facility.

As part of her visit to the Orientation Camp, the Commissioner also visited Etsu Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa, where she sought royal blessings and briefed the monarch on the youth empowerment project, about to commence in his domain.

The Kwara Youth Livestock Empowerment Programme is poised to be a flagship initiative under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to agri-business, innovation and youth-driven development.