The Ogun State government has announced plans to establish ranching facilities to enhance meat processing and ensure hygienic food production.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this initiative while hosting a delegation from SEMMARIS and the French Embassy at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.
According to the governor, the planned ranches will enable the state to rear, fatten, slaughter, and process cattle in a controlled and sanitary environment.
This move is aimed at improving meat quality and reducing health risks associated with unregulated slaughtering practices.
“We have an immediate plan to set up ranching facilities where cattle will be reared, fattened, slaughtered, and processed hygienically.
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“We are also expanding into pig farming while organizing our already existing poultry sector,” Abiodun stated.
He revealed that 9,000 to 10,000 cattle are slaughtered daily at the Kara Cattle Market, primarily serving Lagos markets, but noted that current processing methods lack proper hygiene standards.
The governor commended SEMMARIS for its contributions to agriculture, food distribution, and logistics, particularly through the Rungis Farmers’ Market in France.
He expressed optimism that the company’s presence in Ogun would boost economic opportunities in the state and the southwest region.
Highlighting Ogun’s strategic location and vast natural resources—including a well-connected road network, limestone deposits, and arable land for cocoa, palm oil, and cotton farming—Abiodun emphasized that the partnership aligns with Nigeria-France trade relations.
He also mentioned that President Bola Tinubu is keenly interested in the project’s outcome.
The governor assured that his administration would provide all necessary incentives to support the company’s establishment.
He emphasized that the project would offer extension services to local farmers and serve as a reliable off-taker for their produce.
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Timothee Witkowski, SEMMARIS’s Head of International Projects, affirmed the company’s commitment to partnering with Ogun State in modernizing agricultural operations.
“Ogun State is an ideal starting point due to its strategic location and vast agricultural potential. We aim to work closely with the government to implement modern agricultural solutions,” Witkowski said.
The Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, added that the delegation is conducting a feasibility study to explore business opportunities and ensure successful investment.
She assured that France is fully supportive of the initiative, recognising its potential to create jobs, strengthen food security, and improve the agricultural value chain in state.
