OAU professor Omole makes case for intensity of micro-livestock research

A professor of animal science at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Adeboye Omole, has stressed the need to intensify efforts on micro-livestock research.

He stated this while delivering the 397th inaugural lecture of the Univeristy titled: ’Unlocking The Untapped Potentials In Microlivestock Research And Production’ recently.

He posited that to increase animal protein intake of the growing human population in Nigeria, there is a need to explore the potential of other non-conventional animal protein sources such as grasscutters to complement the regular sources of animal protein supply.

He also noted that the meat of micro-livestock is delicious and of high quality because of the low fat and low cholesterol levels. It is recommended for everyone here who is above the age of 50.

Professor Omole noted that more scientists should be encouraged to take up careers in micro-livestock research, particularly in the areas of health and value addition.

He said: ”Micro-livestock should be provided with the required conditions such as good nutrition, housing and other routine practices for optimum performance.

Nigeria is blessed with several untapped resources in animal agriculture that, if exploited, would solve the challenges of food insecurity as well as the unemployment crisis bedeviling the Nigerian economy.

“Of utmost importance is the micro-livestock farming which is a critical subsector of the livestock industry. Micro-livestock has the potential of contributing to animal protein needs of the rural and urban populace, providing sustainable income to individuals and improving Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“Unfortunately, the micro-livestock sector has become neglected as it is the most ignored and least attractive field of Animal Agriculture. Hence, my lecture that is being delivered today.”

Speaking on one of the microlivestock that is common in Nigeria, professor Omole, said: ”My research team, comprising: Professor J. A Fayenuwo; Dr. O. O. Obi; Dr Y.A Popoola; Professor S.A Kehinde, from the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and Dr F.O Ajasin, from the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT), Ibadan, carried out a lot of studies on grasscutter domestication, management and value addition and competes favourably with other conventional sources of animal protein such as pork, beef, chicken, mutton and chevon.

Grasscutter meat has a high biological value and contains all the essential amino acids (Ayodele and Meduna, 2007).

“The fat content and cholesterol in the meat are lower than those of beef and pork. The crude fat content (about 2-3 percent) is good for humans with heart-related diseases such as hypertension.

“The major cause of disease in humans is what we eat. Stop taking junk food as source of animal protein. The meat of micro-livestock is tasty, delicious, contains low fat and low cholesterol level. Eat it to become healthier and fresh.

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