As part of a forward-thinking initiative to modernize animal agriculture and strengthen food systems, the Ondo State Government has distributed 165 fodder choppers to livestock farmers. The intervention is aimed at improving forage utilization and enhancing the overall health and productivity of farm animals across the state.

The equipment rollout is part of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES)—a joint effort between the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and the World Bank.

Fodder choppers, which shred forages like grass, straw, and hay into finer, digestible portions, are critical tools in modern livestock nutrition. These machines increase feed efficiency, reduce waste, and improve nutrient absorption in animals—especially in systems vulnerable to climate variability.

Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony held in Akure, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, emphasized the practical significance of the intervention.

“The distribution of these choppers is a bold step toward solving long-standing feeding inefficiencies. They will reduce post-harvest losses, optimize available feed resources, and significantly improve animal productivity,” he said.

The governor lauded the Federal Government and World Bank for their technical and financial backing under L-PRES, noting that Ondo State is on track to becoming self-sufficient in livestock protein production.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Foluke Tunde-Daramola, described the event as a milestone in the state’s agricultural transformation agenda, commending Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership in prioritizing food security and livestock innovation.

Also speaking, L-PRES State Coordinator Olufemi Adeogun highlighted the importance of timely interventions in animal feed systems, particularly under changing climate conditions.

“Sustainable livestock farming starts with effective fodder management. With the support of these machines, farmers can maintain healthier animals and boost yields, even during periods of feed scarcity,” he stated.

The fodder choppers are expected to play a key role in reducing input costs, increasing livestock yields, and building climate resilience for smallholder farmers. Beneficiaries have been urged to utilize the machines responsibly and maintain them to ensure long-term impact.