The Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PAN) has reported a staggering loss of over five billion Naira and the closure of more than 127 poultry farms as a consequence of the economic hardship resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies.
During the World Egg Day celebration in Abuja, Musa Hakeem, the Secretary of PAN, Federal Capital Territory Chapter, disclosed these distressing figures to journalists. He also outlined other contributing factors, namely forex challenges and the ban on importing maize and soybeans.
Multiple Challenges
Hakeem highlighted several other challenges afflicting the poultry industry, including the high prevalence of diseases, limited access to credit facilities, soaring feed costs, and the inadequate quality of chicks.
Plea for Collaboration
“We urge the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to involve PAN in the ministry’s ‘Home Grown School Feeding’ program, specifically in the area of egg supply,” Hakeem requested.
“This collaboration will not only generate wealth and employment along the supply chain but also strengthen the industry.”
World Egg Day: Recognizing the Importance of Eggs
Highlighting the significance of World Egg Day, Hakeem emphasized that eggs are an exceptional and cost-effective source of high-quality nutrients.
“Eggs play a crucial socio-economic role, serving as a means of livelihood, contributing to economic independence, and meeting the nutritional animal protein requirements of individuals,” he stated.
Hakeem further explained that eggs also provide a platform for investment and security against risks for small-scale poultry farmers.
