By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Kogi State House of Assembly has screened and confirmed Dr. Olufemi Bolarin as the Commissioner for the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development.
His confirmation followed a request from Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, which was deliberated and approved during Tuesday’s plenary session.
During the screening, Minority Leader Hon. Ibikunle Idowu (Yagba-West State Constituency) reminded the House that Dr. Bolarin had previously served as Commissioner for Agriculture and had a strong track record in public service. Citing his grassroots political experience and contributions to the state, lawmakers unanimously agreed that he was a perfect fit for the role.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf commended the screening process and urged Dr. Bolarin to deliver on Governor Ododo’s vision for livestock productivity and development in the state.
Dr. Bolarin’s appointment follows Governor Ododo’s January 10 approval of the Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed at boosting livestock farming, enhancing resilience, and improving food security.
Before his nomination, Dr. Bolarin served as the State Project Coordinator of Kogi Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Kogi L-PRES). Speaking to journalists, he reaffirmed his commitment to attracting investors and partners to the livestock sector while ensuring sustainable productivity and growth.
A respected scholar, Dr. Bolarin is an Associate Professor with a PhD in Agriculture (Animal Production Extension) from the University of Ilorin. He also holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Agricultural Communication from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.