Efforts to enhance livestock productivity and mitigate the impact of climate change on livestock and humans have received a significant boost in Ebonyi State with the commissioning of solar facilities at the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRESS) unit of the State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Speaking at the event of commissioning the solar facilities installed by the L-PRESS, the Ebonyi State Project Coordinator of the unit, Mr. Julius Victor Nwite, emphasized the program’s role in equipping farmers with modern techniques to enhance livestock production. He highlighted that the initiative aims to commercialize animal farming, ultimately improving the state’s economy and the well-being of its residents.
“The importance of this project cannot be overemphasized. For instance, L-PRESS introduces farmers to improved livestock breeds capable of higher productivity. A pig that typically produces five piglets per farrow can now yield up to fifteen or twenty with proper guidance. Additionally, farmers are trained to achieve multiple reproductive cycles per year across various livestock species,” Mr. Nwite explained.
Mr. Nwite who lauded the state government for fulfilling its counterpart funding obligation, which has sustained the project’s activities, also noted that L-PRESS program is a collaborative effort between the World Bank and the Ebonyi State Government.
In an interview, Engr. Ukah Promise of Prime Protech Technology, the firm responsible for installing the solar facilities who revealed details of the 20KVA project, said that the system comprises a 30-kilowatt battery backup and 30 pieces of 500-watt solar panels, ensuring regular power supply to the L-PRESS unit, including its air conditioners, fans, and other office equipments. According to Mr. Promise, the project cost millions of naira and is a vital step towards adopting renewable energy in the L-PRESS unit.
Hon. Mrs. Nkechinyere Iyioku, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, officially commissioned the solar energy facilities, describing them as a solution to power challenges and a step towards addressing climate change. She commended the L-PRESS unit for its innovative approach and encouraged other sectors to follow suit.
The Commissioner also praised Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for his unwavering commitment to revitalizing Ebonyi State’s agricultural sector. She stated, “The Governor has invested significantly in both crop and livestock farming, reflecting his vision to enhance the state’s economy and improve the lives of Ebonyi residents.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Fidelis Nwankwo, also commended the L-PRESS team for their efforts to adopt alternative power sources to boost productivity. He urged the team to remain committed to achieving their goals.
The L-PRESS solar installation exemplifies Ebonyi State's dedication to sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth. By integrating renewable energy into livestock production, the state continues to position itself as a leader in climate-resilient agriculture.
