Priscilla Ofunre, Ado-Ekiti
Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has reiterated the readiness of his administration to revive some of the ailing industries in the state, saying the move would create more employment opportunities for the youths.
The governor also announced that as part of the move, a sum of N2 billion has been injected into the moribund Ikun Dairy farm, located at Ikun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Fayemi, who spoke while inspecting the facilities at the farm, on Thursday, said the resuscitation, which would be done in partnership with Promasidor Nigeria Limited and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), would ensure daily production of about 10,000 litres of milk.
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The governor explained that, “The revamping of Ikun Diary Farm, established in 1987, but abandoned by past administrations in the state, was part of the move by our administration to lure more investors to the state, with plans underway by Dangote Nigeria Limited to establish a Rice Factory Mills.
“Let me reiterate the readiness of our administration to continue to provide enabling environment for private industries to strive in the state.
“Arrangement had been concluded to revive Ire Clay Bricks Limited and other industries in the state.
“I salute the host community for their unflinching support to the firm. I urge them to give more supports to the farm and ensure its success”, Governor Fayemi said.
Some of the facilities inspected by the governor included, making palour, maternity home for cows, pens for crossbreeding, factory for milk production and reservoir for manure production, among others.
The governor also used the opportunity to inspect the Ero Dam in the town.
The Chief Executive Officer of Promasidor, Mr. Olivier Thiry, said about 400 cows were purchased for the first stage in the farm and will begin production of milk within the next 18 months.
He solicited the support of the people of Ekiti state on the success of the firm and assured them that the company will employ about 1,000 Ekiti indegenes when fully operational.
“Promasidor has made an initial investment of $5 million in the farm which will be invested to procure cattle, equip the Dairy farm, establish a farm to produce feed and renovate existing buildings.
“At full capacity, this farm will produce over 10, 000 litres of milk per day, over 1,000 Ekiti people will also be employed to work in the farm,” he stated.
Similarly, the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele, represented by his Special Adviser on finance, Mr Anthony Ifechukwu, commended Fayemi on his effort at bringing more investors to the state.
He said he had got assurances from the Central Bank for the success of the firm and other investments aimed at bringing more developments to the state.
