…Firm Pays Compensation to Affected Residents
The Ekiti State Government has partnered with Ekiti Kete Livestock Development Company Limited to establish a modern cattle ranching project in Irele Ekiti, in a move aimed at boosting food security and addressing farmers-herders conflicts.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed that about 250 hectares of land has been approved by the State Government for the project.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to providing a conducive and investor-friendly environment for agribusiness development across the state.
Boluwade noted that the ranching project, when completed, would enhance modern livestock production, create employment opportunities for youths and residents of the host community, and stimulate local economic growth through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
He added that the initiative would also tackle the recurring farmers-herders crisis by promoting a structured ranching system in place of open grazing.
According to him, the project will involve the development of grazing paddocks and pastures, cultivation of grasses and legumes, production of hay and silage, as well as the rearing of hybrid and exotic cattle breeds strictly for meat production.
Meanwhile, the company has started to pay compensation to individuals affected by the project in Irele Community, with full operations expected to commence soon.
Chairman of the company, Mr. Ranti Omole, while presenting the cheques, expressed the firm’s commitment to the development of the host community, adding that a revolving loan scheme would be introduced to support market women in the area.
A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has also been signed by the State Government, the company, and the host community to define operational guidelines and ensure strict compliance with ranching standards.
In his reaction, the Onirele of Irele Ekiti, Oba Andero David, alongside members of the Onirele-in-Council, expressed optimism that the project would bring significant development to the community.
The monarch commended the State Government and the investors for the initiative and assured them of the community’s full support.