By Yemi Akinsuyi
The Kebbi State Commissioner for Animal Health, Husbandry and Fisheries, Alhaji Kabiru Usman-Alaramma, says JBS S.A, a Brazilian multi-national firm and one of the largest global meat producers is set to partner with Kebbi State Government for modern meat and dairy production and processing.
Addressing a press conference in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday, the commissioner said, the state government would receive a delegation from the company on an official visit to the state on Monday.
He described the new development as one of the benefits of Gov. Nasir Idris’ foreign trips, while emphasising the economic value such engagement would bring to the state, especially in attracting investments and modern expertise, particularly for livestock farmers.
He said: “Today, I am here to share exciting developments following these efforts, with a special focus on the upcoming visit of top executives from JBS S.A., one of the world’s largest meat processing companies.
“This visit, scheduled for tomorrow, Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, is coming a week after similar visit by the Ambassador of Indonesia which marks a significant milestone in achieving Kebbi’s livestock sector development.”
According to him, the visit of JBS S.A. executives is the direct result of a trip earlier this year to Brazil by a delegation from Kebbi, led by the Deputy Governor, Sen. Umar Abubakar-Tafida.
“During that trip, discussions centred on investment opportunities in livestock development, and we are now poised to bring those conversations to fruition.
“The Brazilian delegation accompanied by officials from the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), will explore avenues for investment and collaboration in livestock development, meat processing and animal health in Kebbi.
“Kebbi’ vast reputation as a key hub for livestock activities in Africa is quickly spreading globally. This visit highlights the growing interest in the state as a prime destination for serious investment in the agriculture and livestock sector,” he observed.
Usman-Alaramma expressed optimism that such destinations would bring modern technology, expertise and resources to Kebbi, creating lasting benefit for the state.
During their visit, he said, the NIPC delegation, led by Executive Secretary and CEO, Hajiya A’isha Rimi would accompany the Brazilian Investors to key livestock development sites in Kebbi.
“This will allow them to evaluate opportunities for collaboration and investment. The delegation will also pay a courtesy call on the governor to further solidify the ties between Kebbi and international investors.
“This visit underscores the ongoing successes of Gov. Idris’ leadership, which has focused on fostering partnerships and securing memorandum of understanding (MoU) that attract both local and foreign investments,” Usman-Alaramma said.
He recalled that the Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr Usra Hendra Harahap, accompanied by his wife and a nine-member technical team, visited Kebbi State to strengthen bilateral agreements aimed at boosting agricultural growth and sustainable development in the state.
“The recent visit of Kebbi State Governor to Indonesia resulted in significant advancements in agriculture and livestock development.
“Key achievements include collaborations to improve livestock production through artificial insemination, with the Indonesian government donating 1,000 straws of semen to enhance livestock breeds for high-quality beef and milk production..
“Additionally, training opportunities in artificial insemination and embryo transfer were secured to build local expertise among veterinary doctors,” he said.
