Fan Milk Plc has revealed a strategic partnership with Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited aimed at enhancing dairy production in the country.
The partnership, as stated by the firm, is targeted towards advancing dairy farming expansion and promoting local sourcing in Nigeria. It is anticipated to yield 300 heifers in the initial year and double that number by 2026.
According to the statement, Fan Milk Plc would be responsible for off-taking the fresh milk produced as per the terms of the 5-year partnership agreement and would also deliver training and technical capacity building for the personnel.
Last year, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, revealed that the country was spending $1.5bn annually on importing dairy products.
Both companies have affirmed their commitment to engaging with local communities in order to cultivate positive relationships, address social concerns, and promote responsible corporate citizenship.
Olusegun Obasanjo, the Chairman of Obasanjo Farms Limited, stated that the partnership aims to advance dairy farm expansion and local sourcing initiatives. He mentioned that through investing in training and capacity-building programmes for local farmers, we can empower communities, increase productivity, and contribute to the development of Nigeria's agricultural sector.
Herve Barrere, the General Manager of Danone Sub-Saharan Africa, expressed optimism that the partnership would improve sourcing raw materials locally, empower local farmers, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
The partnership, according to the statement, represents a significant milestone in Fan Milk’s dedication to backward integration, post the successful launch of its model dairy farm in Odeda, Ogun State, and training for local dairy farmers at the Odeda Dairy Training Institute in 2022.
Olusegun Ariyo, the Project Lead for Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, highlighted that both companies were moving towards a more efficient and economically sustainable environment for dairy farming in the country.
