The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PReS) program, a World Bank-backed initiative, has officially commenced in Edo State to enhance livestock productivity, commercialization, and climate resilience. The initiative spans 22 Nigerian states, aiming to improve the livestock value chain and strengthen food security.

A Game-Changer for Edo’s Livestock Industry

The Edo State Project Coordinator, Ikpikhumi Betsy, highlighted that the core objective of L-PReS is to elevate livestock farming by tackling key industry challenges and boosting productivity. She emphasized the program’s commitment to supporting active livestock farmers, ensuring only verified practitioners are enlisted.

As the only South-South state benefiting from the program, Edo is set to witness significant agricultural transformation. The initiative focuses on key livestock sectors, including:
✅ Poultry farming
✅ Pig farming
✅ Ruminant livestock (sheep & goats)

Betsy underscored that farm profiling and farm visits are essential steps in ensuring transparency and efficiency in farmer selection for the program.

Addressing Farmer-Herder Conflicts

As part of the L-PReS initiative, a one-day roundtable discussion was held in Benin City, themed “Incidence of Farmer-Herder Conflict: Strategic Learning and Practice.” The event gathered stakeholders from all 18 local government areas, offering a platform for dialogue on conflict resolution and community resilience.

The discussion was moderated by Mr. Ebruke Onajite Esike, Executive Director of Global Peace Development and lead consultant to L-PReS. He noted that the session provided critical data for early warning systems and policy development, strengthening livestock sector resilience.

Transforming the Livestock Value Chain

Beyond empowering farmers, the L-PReS project extends support to:
🔹 Processors
🔹 Transporters
🔹 Marketers
🔹 Other key livestock industry players

By integrating all aspects of the value chain, the program ensures sustainable growth, enhances disease control, and reduces economic losses in the sector.

With a data-driven approach, L-PReS aims to position Edo State as a model for livestock industry transformation, fostering an environment where farmers can thrive despite climate challenges.