NIGERIA – Fan Milk Plc a Nigerian dairy processor has announced a collaboration with Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited aimed at revolutionizing dairy production in Nigeria.
According to the processor, the partnership intends to boost dairy farming expansion and promote local sourcing, aligning with national efforts to reduce import dependency and boost the agricultural sector.
The joint venture unveiled in a recent statement by Fan Milk, outlines ambitious plans to establish a dairy farm in Iseyin, Oyo State, with projections to produce 300 heifers within the first year and double that figure by 2026.
In addition, the company noted that Importing 100 pregnant heifers from Egypt will mark the initial phase of this initiative.
“Fan Milk Plc would off-take the fresh milk produced according to the terms of the 5-year partnership agreement and would also provide training and technical capacity building for the personnel,” a statement in a release noted.
“The collaboration is expected to lead to the creation of employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas.”
The partnership will address a pressing concern highlighted by Prof Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, who revealed that Nigeria spends US$1.5 billion annually on dairy imports.
By collaborating with local communities, both companies aim to foster positive relationships, tackle social issues, and uphold responsible corporate citizenship.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chairman of Obasanjo Farms Limited, emphasized the role of the partnership in advancing dairy farm expansion and local sourcing initiatives.
He stressed the importance of investing in training and capacity-building programs to empower local farmers and contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural development.
“By investing in training and capacity-building programmes for local farmers, we will empower communities, enhance productivity, and contribute to the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” he said.
Additionally, Herve Barrere, General Manager of Danone Sub-Saharan Africa, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to empower local farmers, improve livelihoods, and fuel agricultural sector growth through sustainable practices.s
The collaboration builds upon Fan Milk’s commitment to backward integration, demonstrated by the successful launch of its model dairy farm in Odeda, Ogun State, and the establishment of the Odeda Dairy Training Institute in 2022.
Olusegun Ariyo, Project Lead for Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, underscored the shared vision of creating a more efficient and economically sustainable environment for dairy farming in Nigeria.
Managing Director of Fan Milk PLC, Kayode Adebiyi, affirmed the strategic nature of the partnership, emphasizing its role in enhancing local dairy production, reducing import dependency, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
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