……Company pays compensation to affected residents
The Ekiti State Government has partnered with Ekiti Kete Livestock Development Company Ltd to establish a modern cattle ranch in Irele Ekiti, 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 had been approved by the state government for the project.
Boluwade reaffirmed the commitment of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to providing a conducive and investor-friendly environment for agribusiness development across the state.
He 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.
According to him, the initiative would also address the recurring farmers-herders crisis by promoting a structured ranching system in place of open grazing.
He explained that the project would 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 for meat production.
Meanwhile, the company has commenced payment of compensation to individuals affected by the project in Irele community, with full operations expected to begin soon.
The 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.
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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 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.