Kogi L-PRES launches statewide awareness campaign on Implementation of Mass Artificial Insemination (AI)

The Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Kogi L-PRES) has flagged off an awareness campaign for the implementation of a Mass Artificial Insemination (AI) Program, aimed at boosting livestock productivity across the livestock value chain clusters in Kogi State.

The 5-day sensitisation campaign exercise would run from Monday, July 20th to 24th, 2026, at Lokoja, targeting livestock farmers across value -chain clusters.

Speaking at the event on Monday in Lokoja, Oliufemi Bolarin, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, disclosed that the program reflects the commitment of the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to modernise livestock production and strengthen food security in Kogi State

Bolarin explained that Artificial Insemination offers key advantages over natural mating, including access to superior genetics for higher milk yields and faster growth, reduced disease transmission, and lower production costs for the livestock farmers.

He said, “We are providing technical support through trained technicians and capacity building to ensure farmers succeed with this new technology.

“The goal is simple: healthier animals, higher productivity, and better income for the livestock farmers. With the right training and support, Kogi livestock farmers can compete nationally”.

Otaru Abdulkabir Onoruoyiza, the State Project Coordinator (SPC), Kogi L-PRES, said the Mass AI Program was designed to provide livestock farmers with access to superior genetics and technical support to improve meat and milk production, growth rates, reproduction, and disease resilience, noting that while livestock remains vital to food security, job creation and economic growth, the sector still faces challenges of poor breeds, low productivity, and limited access to modern breeding technologies.

He said, “Through artificial insemination, livestock farmers will gain access to superior genetic resources and technical support services capable of delivering improved meat and milk production, faster growth rates, enhanced reproductive performance, and greater economic value”.

He equally added that the program aligns with both the L-PRES Project Development Objective and the Kogi State Agricultural Development Plan, which prioritise productivity, resilience, value addition, and increased farmer incomes.

He said, “The first phase will cover 1,500 cows and 500 goats using conventional and sexed semen.

“Eligible livestock farmers profiled under L-PRES can present 3 to 5 animals each for the AI exercise.

“To sustain the program, Kogi L-PRES Project has engaged Genedxx Nigerian Ltd to deliver AI inputs and technical support services to the profiled livestock farmers in Kogi State.

“The L-PRES Project has also commenced the construction of three (3) Livestock Improvement and Breeding Centres (LIBCs), One (1) in each senatorial district, to fully domesticate the AI activities for continuous breed improvement and ensure sustainability”.

He equally urged livestock farmers to adopt AI, noting that globally it has improved herd quality, reduced production constraints, and boosted profitability, just as he commended and appreciated the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his continued support and commitment to agricultural transformation and livestock development in Kogi State.

“We equally acknowledge the invaluable support of all stakeholders whose dedication and contributions continue to strengthen the successful implementation of the L-PRES Project in Kogi State.

He urged participants to engage actively to ensure a successful rollout and impact of this noble initiative.

“With this intervention, Kogi State aims to build a more productive, resilient, and commercially viable livestock sector to meet rising demand for animal products,” he said.

Tolu Omotugba, State Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), commended Kogi L-PRES for the quality of consultants selected, stressing that ranching is essential to maximise the benefits of mass AI.

Saidu Liman, Livestock farmer, commended the initiative, saying it would improve the value and quality of meat and milk, and increase market prices of livestock products, just as he pledged to mobilize other farmers to participate and reap the benefits of the improved breeding technology.

Liman equally commended the federal and state governments for prioritising livestock development to improve livelihoods and ensure food security.