Emeka Moses
For primary school pupils in Ikun-Ekiti, Wednesdays have become a day to look forward to. Through Ikun Milk Day, an initiative by Promasidor Nigeria, pupils in the community receive fresh milk from Ikun Dairy Farm as part of efforts to support child nutrition and improve community wellbeing.
The weekly programme takes place every school week, with participating primary schools across Ikun-Ekiti taking turns to benefit. By bringing fresh milk directly to school pupils, the initiative connects the farm’s local dairy production with the nutritional needs of the community.
The programme and the wider contribution of Ikun Dairy Farm recently came into focus during a visit to the facility by the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha (FNIM).
During the visit, the Minister expressed appreciation to the people of Ikun and Ekiti State, as well as Promasidor Nigeria, for their contributions to the farm and the host community. He acknowledged the company’s efforts, particularly its contributions to the people and children, and encouraged it to sustain and expand its support.
The Onikun of Ikun, Oba Olatunde David Olushola, also commended the farm’s contribution to the community and its importance to the country’s dairy sector. He noted that, of the six dairy farms established in Nigeria, Ikun Dairy Farm was the only one that had survived to date, describing it as a facility Nigeria and Ekiti State could be proud of.
The traditional ruler called for stronger collaboration among Promasidor Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Ekiti State Government to further develop the farm. He also appreciated the company for its contributions to the community and encouraged it to do more, particularly for its children.
Speaking on the school milk initiative, Mrs Owolabi Margaret Folake, Headmistress of AUD/CAC United, Ikun-Ekiti, expressed appreciation for the programme. She said it had brought excitement to the pupils and had a positive effect on the school, its teachers, and the wider community.
Located in Ikun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Ikun Dairy Farm is operated by Promasidor Nigeria in partnership with the Ekiti State Government. The facility spans over 500 hectares, has over 700 cattle, and produces more than 6,000 litres of fresh milk daily. It also provides over 200 direct jobs and supports more than 1,000 indirect livelihoods in surrounding communities.
Through Ikun Milk Day, Promasidor is extending the benefits of the farm beyond milk production and employment, bringing locally produced fresh milk to children in its host community. For the pupils, it is a simple but meaningful part of their weekly routine; for the community, it is another way the farm’s presence is making a difference in everyday life.
