Three years after the incorporation of Ikun Dairy Farm Limited (IDFL) as an integrated agro-allied concern by the Ekiti State Government, through Fountain Holdings Limited and Promasidor Nigeria Limited (PNL), the company said it has revamped the dairy sector in the state.

Serving as a source of local raw materials for milk production, the farm has demonstrated that commercial dairy farming/ranching can work through government support and the engagement of the private sector.

As the company ensures maximum use of the farm’s potential with competent personnel working to ensure successful operation, the commitment towards making the farm a world-class dairy farm is coming to fruition.

The over 200 employees sourced from the immediate community of the farm led by an experienced dairy farmer/general manager with the support of a farm manager, professional veterinary doctors, and dairy-trained practitioners work to ensure cow comfort through the use of regular vaccinations, proper animal care and feeding, clean and well-ventilated barns with ample supply of fresh water, Promasidor said.

Currently, the farm houses over 500 exotic breeds of animals and has commenced daily production of fresh milk, which is utilised by the calves and off-taken by PNL as the farm ramps up the volume. Routinely inseminated with semen, which guarantees the birth of a minimum of 90 per cent heifers, this is essential not only to milk production but also to ensure the organic growth of the herd.

The farm has also embarked on its own grown feed project, as a supplement to necessary feed required for the animals. Over 400 hectares of maize crops, soya beans, and Rhodes grass have been cultivated and ensiled this year. This ensures feed security for the animals and aids the business case for the farm as bought in feed will accelerate the failure of this initiative.

Already, this is enhancing the agro-allied profile of the state and is contributing to the growth of the state’s economy, creating employment opportunities for residents.

To ensure success, the state Government and local community have proved their total support for the project by providing security around the farm and have given its management a free hand to operate and grow its business. Both partners have said they are working round the clock to drive the success of this initiative and ensure its goals are met.