By Ayomide Otitoju
Promasidor Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s dairy sector, reporting significant results through its alignment with the National Dairy Development Programme. The initiative has increased local milk production and improved access to affordable, high-quality dairy products nationwide.
The company’s CEO, François Gillet, highlighted the impact of Promasidor’s investment in the Ikun Dairy Farm, which has expanded local dairy output while creating a sustainable framework supporting national economic development.
Established in 2019 in partnership with the Ekiti State Government, the Ikun Dairy Farm began with a US$5 million operational investment, later augmented by additional capital to scale operations. Today, the farm hosts over 750 high-yielding cattle, making it the largest dairy farm in Nigeria.
“As a market leader in quality food and beverage products, the national dairy development programme is a critical part of our strategy to localise raw material sourcing, strengthen Nigeria’s dairy ecosystem, and ensure consistent delivery of nutritious milk products to consumers,” Gillet said.
The farm employs advanced dairy management systems, including routine artificial insemination to boost heifer births, supporting sustainable herd growth. Beyond production, the farm drives socio-economic development, employing over 200 locals directly and creating more than 1,000 indirect jobs in surrounding communities.
Promasidor has also invested in a feed security programme, cultivating over 500 hectares of maize and soybeans to ensure consistent nutrition for the herd.
The company’s impact extends to education through its “Ikun Milk Day” initiative, which distributes fresh milk from the farm to primary school children in the Ikun Community, supporting both health and learning outcomes.
Promasidor, which revolutionised the Nigerian dairy industry in 1993 with the launch of Cowbell Milk sachets, continues to invest in innovation and quality standards across its portfolio, including brands like Cowbell, Loya, Miksi, Toptea, Onga, Twisco, and Kremela.
Spanning over 500 hectares in Ikun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area, the Ikun Dairy Farm exemplifies how strategic engagement with the national dairy development programme can advance food security, job creation, and sustainable industrial growth in Nigeria.
