An agro-allied group, Economic Empowerment of Women and Youth in Livestock Agriculture, is set to train 7,200 livestock breeders by 2027.
The coordinator of EEWYLA and founder of Oriyon International Ltd., Amina Momoh-Orimoloye, revealed this in a statement.
Momoh-Orimoloye said the initiative, driven by Oriyon International Ltd. in partnership with the Benue State Agricultural Development Company, aims to integrate breeders into an ecosystem that promises global market access and real growth.
“This collaboration between the group and the government is designed to empower marginalised groups by leveraging cutting-edge blockchain technology developed by RUMER.NG,” she stated.
The EEWYLA initiative added that it takes a comprehensive approach which combines training, mentorship, and access to innovative tools.
According to Momoh-Orimoloye, trainees will receive hands-on experience in small ruminant farming, particularly goats and sheep, and will work towards certification by the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science.
“Trainees will gain skills in breeding, feeding, health management, and business operations, with a focus on compliance with international standards,” she added.
A key innovation of the initiative is its partnership with RUMER.NG, a blockchain platform that ensures traceability across the livestock value chain, a feature guaranteeing livestock products meet international demands while addressing issues such as farmer-herder disputes.
“The traceability feature allows buyers to verify the provenance of livestock and their products, resolving long-standing disputes and fostering trust. It also ensures participants become verified breeders with products fit for global trade,” Momoh-Orimoloye asserted.
The programme prioritises women, youths, and People With Disabilities, offering them starter herds, land access, and integration into a global marketplace.
Further, beneficiaries will have access to Forward Purchasing Agreements and certified breeding colonies, ensuring consistent demand and income.
“Through mechanised processing facilities for dairy, meat, hides, and biogas production, EEWYLA’s zero-waste model boosts income and promotes environmental sustainability,” Momoh-Orimoloye noted.
The coordinator called on policymakers, financial institutions, and international partners to support the initiative, emphasising its potential to position Nigerian farmers as competitive players in global markets.
“This is our opportunity to put Nigerian livestock on the global map. With this partnership, Nigeria’s livestock sector stands on the cusp of a revolution that promises empowerment, sustainability, and a brighter economic future,” she declared.