In a move to address unhygienic meat slaughtering practices, the Ogun State Government has announced plans to establish ranching facilities for meat processing. Governor Dapo Abiodun revealed this initiative while hosting officials from SEMMARIS and the French Embassy at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.
Governor Abiodun highlighted the pressing need for modernized meat processing, noting that approximately 9,000 to 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at Kara Cattle Market under substandard hygienic conditions. The proposed ranching facilities will ensure that cattle are reared, fattened, slaughtered, and processed under the best conditions suitable for human consumption.
“We have an immediate plan to set up ranching facilities in Ogun State, where we will rear cattle, fatten them, slaughter, and process them properly. We are also venturing into pig farming while improving the organization of our poultry sector,” the governor stated.
The initiative aligns with Ogun State’s broader agricultural development strategy, which includes collaboration with international partners to enhance food security and economic growth. Governor Abiodun praised SEMMARIS for its impact on agriculture, food distribution, and logistics, describing its Rungis Farmers’ Market model as a game-changer for the region.
Mr. Timothée Witkowski, Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, affirmed the company’s commitment to partnering with Ogun State to modernize agricultural projects and provide technical expertise. He emphasized that the initiative would create job opportunities and strengthen the agricultural value chain.
Regional Agriculture Counsellor at the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, added that her team is conducting a feasibility study to explore investment opportunities. She assured that France is ready to support the project to ensure its success.
With this partnership, Ogun State is set to revolutionize meat processing, enhance food safety, and create new economic opportunities in the agricultural sector.
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