FG, Multinet group move to increase local capacity in running of abbatoirs

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and an indigenous Multi-Net Group have commenced fresh efforts to increase local capacity operation of modern abbatoirs in the country.

To this effect, both parties have sealed a deal to establish modern international standard abbatoirs in the six geo-political zones in the country.

The aim of the Memorandum of Understanding, according to bother parties, is to develop meat and livestock process value-chain wherein there would be traceability in meat products, and also the quality and hygiene would be guaranteed.

A statement made available to journalist in Abuja noted that the objective of the MOU was to discourage Nigeria from relying on imported meat products, which are of questionable hygiene and quality.

The Chairman of Multinet group, Dr. Uzoma Obiyo said the modern abattoir would produce healthy, quality, fresh and locally produced animals. He said modern abattoirs would also help provide income and livelihood for livestock farmers.

Obiyo made a strong case for agricultural entrepreneurial revolution, noting that the nation had the capacity to become a major player in that area.

The initiative, he said, would attract young unemployed youths into farming and live-stock. “I see a situation where a young person will be proud to say that he or she is a butchery expert and earning good living with it,” he observed.

He added: “I see a Nigeria that will soon dominate the rest of the world in food export and production, but for now, I want to produce healthy and fresh quality food for Nigeria with Zero wastage because everything in the farm and in the abattoir will be utilized and by so doing will eliminate waste because at the moment I see lot of wastage in food, agriculture and livestock value chain.

Obiyo further disclosed that as part of job creation mechanism and empowerment of local communities, the company have set up a large farming settlement that would not only produce quality products but would also grow organic fruits and vegetables that would be sold fresh while left over would be stored or process.

Obiyo, whose company had earlier this year sealed a deal with the Ministry of Power, towards developing the coal fields in Enugu and also generating 500mega-watts in the process, said electricity was not the only challenge in Nigeria.

He was optimistic that Nigeria could dominate the rest of the world in food export and production, but for now, he wants to produce healthy and fresh quality food for Nigeria with zero wastage.