The Ekiti State Government under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji has distributed the sum of N77 million to beneficiaries who are part of the Cohort 2 Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS) as part of its ongoing efforts to expand the poultry farming sector as well as boost food production and encourage young entrepreneurs across the state.
At the event of distribution of profits, which was held in Jibowu Hall, Government House Grounds, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor and the Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, announced a brand new N300 million grant to expand the scheme and create additional poultry farms in the state’s three senatorial districts.
“Our vision is to strengthen Ekiti’s poultry base to produce at least 90,000 birds per cycle, creating jobs and generating wealth for residents,” the governor said.
Expanding Poultry Capacity and Youth Inclusion
Governor Oyebanji described the development of the Ekiti Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS) as a huge economic success which demonstrates his administration’s dedication to the transformation of agriculture in the area of youth empowerment, as well as securing food supply.
“The scheme, which was launched with a profit that was N19.4 million in Cohort 1, has increased by N77 million for Cohort 2. “This is a sign of the growth and sustainability, as well as shared prosperity,” the official said.
The official stated that the program has successfully cultivated over 250,000 broilers since its launch in 2023. The scheme has helped over 250 entrepreneurs in the young age group directly and many others indirectly via supply chains and ancillary services.
“Agriculture is not just about providing food for the nation but also about generating prosperity, jobs, and self-reliance. With this further N300 million investment, we’re ramping up poultry farms and enhancing opportunities for our young people,” the governor added.
Empowering a New Generation of Farmers
Governor Oyebanji thanked those who benefitted from their dedication and encouraged them to invest their earnings into the expansion of their agricultural businesses.
“You are the model for the new Ekiti that is innovative, energetic, hard-working, and forward-looking. Make the most of your earnings to build sustainable businesses and guide others who want to enter this field,” he advised.
He stressed that agriculture will remain an important foundation of his economic program and said that the government will continue to fund initiatives that increase the productivity of farmers and restore dignity to farming.
Infrastructure and Policy Support
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, stated that the government had completed the renovation of six penteries for poultry across the state to enhance the EBOPS initiative and was making plans for additional clusters in future phases.
“Since the program began in 2023, more than 160,000 broilers have been made, with the goal of reaching 250,000. Agriculture is at the heart of the guiding principles of the present administration, and the governor’s management has restored faith in farming,” he stated.
Boluwade stated that the rapid expansion of the project shows Ekiti’s determination in becoming one of Nigeria’s top poultry-producing states.
Legislative Backing and Expansion Plans
The Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Babatunde Fawekun, hailed the initiative as a “masterstroke”, confirming that the 2026 Appropriation Bill will provide more funding for broiler schemes and more expansive agricultural expansion.
“This reflects the seriousness and consistency of the Oyebanji administration in empowering farmers and ensuring agriculture remains the foundation of Ekiti’s economy,” said the minister. declared.
Stakeholder and Beneficiary Reactions
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Poultry Association, Mrs Mary Olotu, applauded the governor for revitalising urging continued public support for the administration’s empowerment campaign.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Femi Fagbemi, described this program as a “lifeline” for young entrepreneurs.
“This scheme has helped bring many youngsters out of the slums. I would like to see the government extend the facility so that farmers can take part,” he added.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Ekiti State Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS) |
| Organizer | Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture |
| Grant/Profit Value | ₦77 million (Cohort 2 profit distribution) |
| Expansion Funding Approved | ₦300 million |
| Participants | Over 250 youth farmers |
| Birds Produced (2023–2025) | 250,000 broilers |
| Target Output per Cycle | 90,000 birds |
| Programme Focus | Poultry development, youth empowerment, agribusiness expansion |
| Commissioner for Agriculture | Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade |
| Next Phase | Cohort 3 with 200 new participants |
Conclusion
The Ekiti State Broilers Production Scheme continues to be recognised as a model for the development of agriculture and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
With more than N77 million distributed in profits and an additional investment of N300 million approved by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration, Ekiti is laying the foundations for sustainable growth of agribusiness as well as job creation and food security, while reaffirming thatEkiti’s future lies within an agribusiness that is modern and youth-driven.