The Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State, in partnership with the State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), has trained 100 youths across its twelve wards in a step-down programme aimed at boosting livestock development.
The initiative, held in Ilorin, sought to equip young people with modern skills in livestock productivity, strengthen their economic contribution to the state, and reduce poverty at the grassroots level.
Speaking at the workshop, Chairman of Ilorin East Local Government, Mallam Garba Lukman Agbelere, praised Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for prioritising youth development through practical, results-oriented programmes.
Agbelere also commended L-PRES for its efforts in addressing unemployment and poverty through agricultural initiatives.
“This training is a major step towards youth empowerment and sustainable development in Ilorin East Local Government, complementing the state’s broader drive to improve livelihoods and economic growth,” he said.
The council chairman noted that the State Government, through L-PRES, has been investing in livestock productivity, resilience, and the commercialisation of selected value chains. He added that local councils must intensify youth empowerment initiatives, particularly in light of current economic pressures.
Agbelere assured that the council would collaborate with relevant stakeholders to transform the narrative of the local government. He revealed that all youth leaders who participated in the training would receive one goat each, along with cash support to facilitate the transport of the animals to their respective wards.
He said the programme reflects the state’s commitment to inclusive growth while providing practical solutions to unemployment and promoting rural development.