Animal Society Moves To Revolutionize Nigeria’s livestock Sector
The society for Animal Health and Improvement (SARI) is spearheading a transformative era in livestock farming and agricultural development across Nigeria.
Marking its inaugural conference on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the University of Ibadan in Oyo State, SARI convened under the theme: “Animal Reproduction and Improvement in Retrospection: Towards Sustainable National Development,” with a subtheme focused on “Animal Improvement and Challenges of Policy Formulation and Implementation.”
Gathering prominent stakeholders from various sectors of the livestock value chain, the conference heralded a new dawn for advancing animal reproduction practices nationwide. Among the distinguished attendees were experts, scholars, and representatives from allied societies and associations.
In his opening remarks, Prof. S. I. Ola, President of SARI and a faculty member at Obafemi Awolowo University, articulated the society’s mission to promote the science and practice of animal reproduction in Nigeria.
He underscored the significance of the conference as a platform to consolidate efforts and set forth a strategic agenda for enhancing animal production nationwide.
Addressing the assembly, Prof. O. A. Osinowo emphasized the imperative of fostering a focused and inclusive society dedicated to improving livestock for nutritional enhancement.
However, he noted the societal responsibility to uplift local breeds and leverage indigenous resources for sustainable agricultural development.
Similarly, Prof. Matthew Oyeyemi advocated for embracing the inherent strengths of local breeds while urging stakeholders to collaborate in harnessing their potential. The collective effort, he emphasized, is pivotal in maximizing the positive attributes of indigenous livestock for national prosperity.
Mr. Raymond Isiadinso, President of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria, expressed optimism about SARI’s role as a catalyst for transformative change in the animal industry. He lauded the society’s formation as a promising milestone and urged steadfast support for its endeavors.
Throughout the conference, two plenary sessions provided invaluable insights and practical strategies for advancing the objectives of SARI. Dr. G. O. Oyediji, a distinguished industry veteran, underscored the importance of accountability and innovation in navigating contemporary challenges facing animal agriculture.
Mrs. Winnie Lai-Solarin, representing the Federal Department of Animal Husbandry Services, emphasized the pivotal role of livestock in alleviating poverty and enhancing food security.
Interactive sessions following the plenaries facilitated engaging exchanges between attendees and speakers, fostering a collaborative spirit towards shared goals.
The induction of esteemed pioneers into the hall of fame, including Prof. Joseph Ukpe Akpokodje and Prof. Gabriel Nwachukwu, honored their enduring contributions to animal production and theriogenology in Nigeria.
The conference also featured breakout sessions, group presentations, and the adoption of SARI’s constitution, symbolizing a landmark moment in the society’s institutional development.
Notable dignitaries in attendance, including Professor Godwin Oyedele Oyedeji and Mr. Kunle Ogunwomoju, underscored the collective commitment to advancing animal health and agricultural progress in Nigeria.
Furthermore, as a beacon of hope for the future, SARI stands poised to bridge knowledge gaps and drive transformative change in animal reproduction practices, thereby catalyzing economic growth and prosperity for Nigeria.
Agro Nigeria / Foluke Ibitomi
