By Uzair Adam
The Kano State Government has launched a comprehensive training initiative aimed at equipping 600 beneficiaries with business planning skills in the livestock sector, under the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES).
Organized through the State Ministry of Agriculture, the training commenced on Wednesday with a focus on small ruminants, poultry, beef, and dairy production, targeting mainly youth and women.
Read Also: Suspected Robber Stabs 2 Women, Dies After Foiled Attack in Kano
The objective is to help participants develop viable and bankable business plans that can attract financial support.
Speaking, Dr. Sunusi Abubakar, the L-PRES National Project Coordinator, described the training as essential in preparing beneficiaries to expand their livestock ventures through structured planning and access to funding.
Dr. Abubakar, who was represented by Ms. Heather-Ronke Akanni, the National Value Chain Consultant for L-PRES, stated that, “This initiative is about helping them navigate the business side of livestock farming—developing investment strategies in beef, dairy, poultry, and small ruminants.
“It opens pathways to single-digit loans and even export opportunities through proper branding and value addition,” she added.
She noted that the sessions are being held across the state’s three senatorial zones, using local dialects to enhance understanding.
Also speaking, Dr. Salisu Muhammad Inuwa, the Kano State Coordinator for L-PRES, said the training responds to the widespread practice of livestock rearing in both urban and rural areas.
However, he noted that many people engage in the activity without treating it as a business.
“You will find goats, sheep, poultry, or cattle in many homes, but most people don’t track costs or profits. This program bridges that gap,” he explained.
He added that one-third of the participants are women, while a majority are young people, adding that “They have been grouped and will receive tools such as grain processing machines to improve feed production.”
Dr. Bashir Sunusi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, who represented the State Commissioner for Agriculture, praised the program for aligning with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s broader vision to revitalize the agricultural sector and tackle unemployment.
“This initiative supports our wider plans, including the recruitment of over 1,000 youths for rural agricultural support and the construction of 11 dams, one of which holds up to 3.1 billion litres,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, **Sule Sale**, Kano L-PRES Value Chain and Market Linkage Officer, stressed that livestock farming, when treated as a business, can yield significant returns.
Sale stated that, “There are countless opportunities in meat and dairy production. With proper planning, participants can access loans and expand their enterprises.”
The training marks a major step toward improving productivity, resilience, and market access in Kano’s livestock industry under the L-PRES program.