Edo targets safer meat, jobs with new automated abattoir
By Osho Olatomiwa
The Edo State Government is set to construct an ultra-modern abattoir at Ikpoba Slope, Benin City, to improve meat hygiene, enhance livestock processing and create employment opportunities.
The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, announced the development during an inspection of the project site, where he formally handed it over to contractors ahead of construction.
The project, being implemented by the Ministry of Livestock Development in collaboration with the Edo Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, aligns with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, particularly its focus on food security and agro-industrialisation.
Ehijimetor said the automated facility would eliminate open slaughtering, strengthen veterinary inspection and ensure safer meat for consumers.
He added that residents would be engaged during the construction phase and trained to operate and maintain the facility upon completion.
The Chairman of the Butchers Association, Douglas Owie, welcomed the initiative and pledged the association’s cooperation to ensure the successful implementation of the project.
According to the state government, the facility is expected to generate direct and indirect employment, boost internally generated revenue and strengthen cold-chain systems and market linkages.
The project is also expected to position Edo State as a hub for hygienic meat processing in the South-South region.
