The Federal Government has announced plans to upgrade the Benue Swine and Crop Improvement Project in Yadev, Gboko Local Government Area, to full operational capacity.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, disclosed this on Saturday during a visit to the project site at Akperan Orshi Polytechnic, Yadev.
He revealed that the government intends to implement an integrated pig farming and processing initiative in the state.
Maiha expressed satisfaction with the existing setup and assured that the project would be expanded and sustained to benefit the people.
He noted that the farm, which currently holds only 79 pigs, would be upgraded to accommodate its full capacity of 3,000 pigs.
“The facility will serve as a reproductive centre where piglets will be bred and sold to out-growers,” he explained.
He also highlighted plans to introduce advanced genetic breeding beyond the existing large white, duroc, and landrace breeds.
Additionally, the government will support the establishment of a modular processing unit to enable the processing and packaging of pig meat for commercial purposes.
“We will integrate modern technology, introduce improved genetic breeds for crossbreeding with local varieties, and establish this farm as a learning centre,” he stated.
The minister emphasized the need to ensure feed availability and promote cooperative groups for out-growers to fully integrate into the livestock business.
He also pledged government support for revitalizing the poultry sector and developing pasture lands, recognizing Benue’s status as an agricultural hub and the nation’s food basket.
In response, Aondoakaa Asambe, Director-General of the Benue Bureau for Livestock Development, Transboundary, and Animal Control, acknowledged the cultural and economic significance of pig farming in the state.
He affirmed that the state government would maximize federal support to harness the full potential of the livestock sector.
