Poultry Association of Nigeria urges government to address egg production crisis

NIGERIA – The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) is calling on the Federal Government to declare a “state of emergency” regarding egg production in Nigeria. 

This request emerges amid growing concerns about the rising costs and accessibility of eggs, a crucial source of nutrition for many Nigerians. 

Aminu, a representative of PAN, emphasized the urgent need for government action, linking the decline in egg production and escalating prices to a prolonged neglect of the poultry sector. 

He noted that this neglect has intensified in comparison to other agricultural industries, leaving poultry farmers and consumers facing increasing difficulties. 

Recent economic measures, such as the naira redesign and the removal of fuel subsidies, have worsened conditions, driving up transportation costs, poultry feed prices, and labor expenses. 

These financial burdens are forcing numerous farmers to contemplate shutting down their operations.

The ramifications of these challenges extend beyond the poultry sector, impacting the broader economy and social landscape. 

As farms close, unemployment rises, contributing to instability in communities dependent on agricultural jobs. 

According to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Nigeria has the largest annual egg production and the second-largest chicken population in Africa, with around 180 million birds across different farming systems. 

These ongoing challenges are forcing many farmers to exit the industry, diminishing the country’s ability to produce adequate eggs for its growing population.

Earlier in August, the Lagos State chapter of PAN also made headlines by requesting government authorization to directly import maize to help alleviate rising production costs in the poultry sector. 

In recent reports, the poultry industry in Nigeria has faced significant challenges, including illegal imports. 

The Feed Practitioners Association of Nigeria (FIPAN) revealed that approximately one million metric tons of chicken are smuggled into the country each year, further straining local poultry farmers and the overall industry.

This influx of illegally imported poultry meat enters through unregulated channels, posing significant challenges for domestic producers.

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