By Alao Abiodun 

• Lagos Semi-Mechanised Modern Abattoir, Bariga unveiled

• Reform of the red meat value chain in progress

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Senator Gbenga Ashafa on Friday commissioned the new semi-mechanised abattoir for cow and goat under the Public-Private Partnership in Bariga.

Sanwo-Olu in his address expressed excitement over the completion of the project which was facilitated by Alhaji Olayiwola Niniola.

He said, “This is a clear example of ‘can-do’ spirit and I must commend Alhaji Niniola for transforming this place. Looking at the state of how this abattoir was years ago, it was such an unpleasant sight but now it is now looking good.”

While calling on more private investors to contribute to the red meat value chain especially in Lagos state, he promised to do other additional improvement in terms of development of Bariga environs.

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“Lagos consume over 50% of animal production in the country. Lagos state has about 16 abattoirs, and about 11 is owned by Lagos. This is a clear demonstration of how small SMEs can grow into big ones,” he said.

Similarly, Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola commended the Lagos state government for providing an enabling environment for SMEs to thrive.

He significantly lauded how the small butcher’s area has now been transformed into a semi-mechanised abattoir.

He also explained that the operations of the new abattoir will provide more employment for about 800 persons.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, highlighted the need for more abattoirs in the state to cater for the needs of the people. She further canvassed for more private investment in the abattoir business.

Olusanya warned that illegal slaughter slabs will not be allowed in the state stating that there is a need for hygienic processing and marketing of meat.