By Abdulazeez Mala (9NEWS NIGERIA, GOMBE STATE)
The state coordinator, Gombe Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Professor Usman Bello Abubakar, has pledge to upgrade and rehabilitate the the existing Farmer Field School in Gombe State.
He said this during a visit to the school site at Wajari, a community under Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area of the state.
Emphasizing on the importance of the facility, he said the center will serve as a crucial platform for treaning local livestock farmers on best practices, thereby enhancing their productivity and profitability.
“This will not be a traditional school, instead, it will serve as a dynamic training center where farmers can learn and apply practical skills in livestock management,” he said.
He added that the center will feature dedicated demonstration areas for cattle (both dairy and beef), goats, sheep, and poultry, allowing farmers to observe best practices firsthand.
He further expressed his satisfaction with the chosen site for its accessibility and existing infrastructure.
“This location was strategically selected due to its strategic positioning as a converging point for herders and livestock farmers,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the host communities, the Village Head of Wajari, Malam Muhammad Jauro appreciated the state government for choosing the community for the project.
“Livestock rearing is a cornerstone of our livelihood, and modernizing our practices will significantly improve our living standards,” he added, assuring the community’s support and participation.
L-PRES is a 6 Year Project with Development Objective (PDO) to improve livestock productivity, resilience and commercialization of selected value chains.
It also aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to an eligible crisis or emergency.