By Salawu Nneka Patience
The Kogi State Ministry of Livestock Development, in collaboration with the National L-PRES Office, has officially handed over the site for the construction of the Kogi State Model Veterinary Hospital, a World Bank–supported project, marking a significant step toward strengthening animal health services and livestock development in the state.
The stakeholders’ engagement and site handover ceremony took place in Osara, within the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH).
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Femi Bolarin, said the project reflects the commitment of the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to modernizing the livestock sector, improving veterinary service delivery, and enhancing food security. He specifically commended the Governor for the timely payment of counterpart funds, describing it as a demonstration of strong political will and dedication to the successful implementation of development projects in the state.
The Commissioner explained that the Model Veterinary Hospital will serve as a centre for quality veterinary care, disease surveillance, training, and research, while also contributing to the control of zoonotic diseases and the protection of public health. He urged the contractors to adhere strictly to approved specifications, timelines, and quality standards, while appreciating the support of the State Project Implementation Unit, development partners, traditional institutions, and the host community.
In his opening remarks, the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Otaru Abdulkabir, described the project as the outcome of extensive planning and stakeholder collaboration. He stressed the importance of community ownership and cooperation in ensuring smooth project implementation and commended the leadership of the Ministry and the support of the Osara community.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Vice Chancellor of the Confluence University of Science and Technology, represented by the University Registrar, Mrs. Yakubu Gloria, highlighted the project’s potential to enhance collaboration in teaching, research, and practical training in veterinary medicine.
The traditional ruler of Osara, HRH Ohi-Ekura, expressed gratitude to the state government for siting the project in the community and assured stakeholders of the community’s full support and protection of the facility.
Also delivering a goodwill message, the Director-General of Good Governance Delivery commended the state government for prioritizing accountability, transparency, and results-driven development in the livestock sector. He described the project as a clear example of effective governance and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote service delivery and sustainable development.
Responding on behalf of the contracting firm, Engr. Abdullahi Jawad Zubair thanked the state government for the confidence reposed in his company and assured that the project would be executed in strict compliance with approved designs, timelines, and safety standards.
In his closing remarks, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Shuaibu Husseini, described the Model Veterinary Hospital as a strategic investment in animal health and livestock development and called for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure its successful completion and effective utilization.
