Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has revealed that the state is making arrangements to set up ranching facilities aimed at improving meat processing and ensuring hygienic handling of livestock.
The governor made this known on Monday when he received a delegation from SEMMARIS, led by its Head of International Projects, Mr. Timothee Witkowski, alongside the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun explained that the ranching facilities would enable the state to rear, fatten, slaughter, and process meat under sanitary conditions suitable for human consumption.
“We have an immediate plan to set up ranching facilities here in Ogun State where we will rear cattle, fatten them, slaughter, and process them properly,” he said. “We are also going to do piggery as well. Already, we have a lot of poultry, but we will get them organized.”
The governor noted that between 9,000 and 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at the Kara Cattle Market to supply Lagos markets, but the processes are often carried out in an unsanitary manner.
He commended SEMMARIS for its contributions to agriculture, food distribution, and logistics, particularly through the Rungis Farmers’ Market in France, which ensures affordable food supply.
He described the company’s presence in Ogun as a game changer that would create opportunities for the state and the southwest region.
“Ogun State enjoys an extensive road network that connects to various parts of the country,” he said, adding that the state is also endowed with large deposits of limestone and arable land suitable for cultivating cocoa, palm oil, and cotton.
Abiodun emphasized that the meeting was a follow-up to his previous discussions in France, expressing appreciation for the strong business relationship between Nigeria and France. He noted that President Bola Tinubu is keenly interested in the outcomes of the engagement.
The governor assured that his administration would provide necessary incentives and support to facilitate SEMMARIS’ establishment in Ogun, noting that the company would play a key role in offering extension services to farmers and serving as an off-taker for their produce.
Mr. Witkowski, in his remarks, highlighted the importance of partnering with Ogun State to modernize agricultural projects and provide technical services.
“Starting with Ogun State is a good idea because of the potential and the strategic location of the state,” he said. “There is a lot of land available, and the state government has a strong vision for the region.”
He added that the project, when fully operational, would generate employment, enhance food security, and strengthen the agricultural value chain.
Similarly, the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, stated that the delegation was in Ogun to conduct a feasibility study to explore business opportunities. She assured that France is ready to support the initiative and facilitate necessary investments.
