By: Joshua Adinoyi
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) has commissioned and handed over Model Live Birds Market to the Government of Kogi State.
The Commissioning and handing over ceremony of the facility which was conducted at the Union Junction, Obajana, had Representatives of FMARD, Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture, Traditional Rulers, Youths and other members of the Community in attendance.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Muhammed Mahmood Abubakar, said the Ministry taught it wise to embark on the project to protect the people from hazards associated with live birds being sold in public places.
The Minister who was represented by the Kogi State Coordinator of the FMARD, Mr. Ayuba Shekamang, explained that the Ministry will not relevant efforts at meeting her aims and objectives at all times.
Dr. Mahmood Abubakar called on the people to take ownership of the project, stressing that it will go a long way at adding value to the people of the State, especially those in the Community.
“This project came as a result of Public Private Partnership which is the current trend in governance, so we thank this Community for keying into this program
“We want you to take ownership of this project and protect it because it’s yours already” the Minister said.
The Director of Veterinary Services in the Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Salawu Muhammed Tarawa, commended FMARD for ensuring the success of the project, pointing out that it will go a long way at controlling indiscriminate Practices of live bird marketers especially in the Area.
Dr. Salawu Tarawa called on the people of the Area to protect the facility, explaining that aside the sales of live birds, the facility can also serve as treatment centre for birds.
The Bajana of Obajana, Engineer Idowu Isenibi, described the citing of the project in Obajana as a blessing to the people of Obajana Community.
Oba Isenibi, who was represented by the Chairman of Obajana Community, Chief Eseyin Matthew, appreciated FMARD for according attention to the needs of the people.
The traditional ruler pledged his continuous commitment and collaboration with all Agencies and individuals with developmental ideas, saying that the cause of developing the society should not be left to the government alone.
On his part, Obajana Youth President, Comrade Idowu Olukasam Owolabi, lauded the gesture of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development at according rare attention to the sector, stressing that the youths of the Community will continue to live up to expectations.
Live-bird markets allow consumers to select the live bird of their choice and the Birds may be resold, slaughter and dress the birds for consumers to take home.
