…Initiative to train and empower corps members, young agripreneurs in livestock value chain
The Kwara State Government is set to launch a transformative livestock agribusiness programme targeting National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and other young people across the state, in a bid to drive youth empowerment, rural development, and innovation in the livestock sector.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, during a courtesy visit to the NYSC Orientation Camp at Yikpata, Tsaragi District in Edu Local Government Area over the weekend. Accompanied by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Yahaya Mohammed, the Commissioner explained that the initiative will train, equip, and fund young livestock entrepreneurs.
“Our goal is to turn job seekers into job creators,” Mrs. Thomas said. “This partnership with the NYSC allows us to deliver practical training in livestock production, business development, and access to finance within a supportive environment.”
Scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, the programme will be implemented through a public-private partnership secured by the state government. Participants will undergo an intensive three-month training at the Yikpata camp, after which they will receive starter packs and support to launch or grow their agribusinesses.
While corps members will be the primary beneficiaries during the orientation periods, the facility will also be made available to other youths during off-camp seasons.
NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, expressed strong support for the initiative, assuring the state’s readiness to collaborate fully and urging the government to prioritize security around the camp.
The Commissioner also paid a courtesy visit to the Etsu Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa, to seek royal blessings and inform the traditional ruler about the planned youth empowerment programme.
The Kwara Youth Livestock Empowerment Programme is positioned to become a flagship project under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration, further cementing the state’s commitment to agribusiness, innovation, and youth development.
