Edo-LPRES trains extension agents on alternative livestock feeds

The Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Edo-LPRES) has trained no fewer than 78 extension workers on the production of alternative livestock feeds from plant waste.

Betsy Ikpikhumi, the State coordinator of Edo-LPRES, disclosed this during the training recently, noting that feed accounted for over 70 percent of livestock production costs in the country.

Ikpikhumi said that making alternative feed is an option that is essential for improving farmers’ profitability and sustainability.

“These feed alternatives include grass, straw, and plant residue, which are affordable, accessible, and efficient for animal nutrition,” she said.

“With these practices, farmers can lower feed costs, increase productivity, and enhance income through better commercialisation of livestock products,” she added.

Ikpikhumi said the extension workers are trained on Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHPS). According to her, it was aimed to equip the workers and agents with knowledge on using plant waste for alternative livestock feed formulation.

She pointed out that the challenge of competition between human and animal consumption of grains like maize and sorghum increases production costs for farmers.

“The extension agents trained during the session would transfer the knowledge to rural farmers, which helps them adopt sustainable and cost-effective livestock practices.”

Participants include veterinary doctors, ministry officials, animal husbandry experts and extension agents, ensuring a broad support network for farmers in the state.

“The training that hosted 78 participants provided comprehensive, hands-on experience in modern feed formulation techniques,” she said.

Ikpikhumi, however, proposed using agricultural residues, such as corn husks and plant straws, to create livestock feed, thereby reducing reliance on conventional, costly feed ingredients.

In his remarks, Emmanuel Okonedo, the Animal Husbandry Services Officer for Edo-LPRES, added that the training was specifically designed to enhance the capacity of extension agents.

Okonedo, who stated that agriculture, especially livestock farming, was evolving rapidly, added that methods used decades ago were outdated, and modern techniques were emerging for better outcomes.

According to him, unfortunately, many farmers remain unaware of these innovations. “Extension agents play a vital role in bridging this knowledge gap and improving farm productivity.”

“They must transfer up-to-date practices to farmers, helping them adapt to modern methods currently trending in Nigeria and around the world,” he stated.

Participants at the training were taught on emerging trends in GAHPS, an overview of livestock production systems and housing design, and maintenance.