Edo LPRES trains extension agents on cost-saving livestock feed alternatives

The Edo State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Edo LPRES) has launched a five-day intensive training to equip extension agents with modern techniques in animal husbandry, focusing on innovative, low-cost livestock feed solutions.

Speaking at the opening session in Benin City, State Coordinator Mrs Betsy Ikpikhumi said the training is aimed at promoting Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHPS), with special emphasis on using agricultural residues like corn husks and plant straws as alternative feed sources.

She explained that feed accounts for over 70 percent of livestock production costs, and the rising competition between human and animal consumption of grains such as maize and sorghum has made affordable alternatives a priority.

"These plant-based residues are not only accessible and sustainable, but they significantly reduce production expenses while improving nutritional value for livestock," she said.

Ikpikhumi noted that the 78 participants — including veterinary officers, ministry officials, and animal husbandry experts — will play a vital role in passing the knowledge to rural farmers, helping them adopt more profitable and sustainable livestock practices.

Mr Emmanuel Konedo, Edo LPRES Animal Husbandry Services Officer, stressed that the sector must evolve with emerging trends.

“Many farmers are still using outdated methods. This training empowers extension agents to bridge the knowledge gap and introduce modern feed and housing techniques that can transform farm productivity,” he said.

Topics covered during the training include innovations in GAHPS, livestock production systems, and efficient housing designs. The session, which began Monday, will run until Friday, offering practical, hands-on sessions designed to enhance the overall resilience and productivity of livestock farming in the state.