Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has signaled his administration’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector through a strategic partnership with Barn Holding Group, a leading agribusiness and livestock development enterprise. The collaboration aims to establish an expansive livestock and dairy production project in the state under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
The investment, valued in billions of naira, is expected to create tens of thousands of jobs for residents, boost internally generated revenue, enhance food supply, and strengthen Abia’s agricultural economy.
Governor Otti made the disclosure on Tuesday, November 4, during a briefing by the Chief Executive Officer of Barn Holding Group, Engr. Tony Jibuno. He described the proposal as a significant step toward modernizing farming systems, noting that agriculture remains key to Nigeria’s sustainable economic growth.
“This initiative offers a practical and innovative approach to livestock production. Agriculture is fundamental to our development goals, and this project aligns with our vision to make Abia a hub for agribusiness and food security,” Governor Otti said.
To ensure proper implementation, the Governor has set up a five-member government committee to jointly develop project structures, financing models, and technical plans. He emphasized that thorough planning and precise execution will determine the success of the initiative.
“We must pay attention to every detail and fast-track site assessments. Once we finalize the initial plans, we move to the field immediately,” he stated.
Governor Otti also confirmed that the state is ready to provide suitable land at either Okoko Item where the project was initially proposed or Umunneochi, depending on final feasibility assessments.
According to the Governor, the development supports Abia’s push toward ranching and organized livestock farming, moving away from the unsustainable practice of open grazing. He noted that the project will significantly increase employment, stimulate the value chain, and enhance local food production.
Speaking earlier, Barn Holding Group CEO, Engr. Tony Jibuno, explained that the proposed livestock project will include the revitalization of the Okoko Livestock Farm, along with the establishment of a modern feedlot, an abattoir, and a ranching and disease-control center in Umunneochi.
He added that the new cattle ranch will also serve as a training and demonstration center to empower local farmers with modern livestock management techniques. The project is projected to create over 20,000 jobs, produce over 2,000 tonnes of beef annually, and emerge as a model for livestock production across the region.
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Jibuno requested an additional allocation of 500 hectares of land to support long-term commercial viability and assured that the initiative will reduce Nigeria’s heavy dependence on livestock imports.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbarze; Commissioner for Lands, Chaka Chukwumerije; and the DG/CEO of PPP and Investment Promotion Office, Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, among others.
