Poultry farmers in Nigeria, represented by the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), have made a request to the Federal Government for help in reducing costs associated with poultry farming. They are asking for lower tariffs on imported supplies and equipment that are essential for raising chickens and producing eggs. By making these imports cheaper, they believe it will help lower their overall production costs and promote growth in the poultry industry.
This appeal was made during a recent meeting in Abuja, where a group from the Poultry Association, led by Olatunde Badmus, visited the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha. During the meeting, the Minister expressed his strong support for improving the poultry sector and acknowledged the various challenges that farmers are currently facing.
Minister Maiha pointed out that it is crucial to take immediate action and create lasting policies that will strengthen the poultry industry’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy and ensure food security for the country. He emphasized that growing crops like maize, sorghum, and soybeans is essential because these are key ingredients for poultry feed. Without these, the industry cannot overcome its current difficulties. He assured the farmers that efforts are already being made to address these issues.
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In their discussion, the PAN delegation highlighted the urgent need to improve the productivity of poultry farming. They suggested that the government should act as the “buyer of last resort” for important grains like maize and soybeans. This means that if prices drop too low, the government would step in and buy these grains to stabilize prices and ensure there is enough supply for poultry feed. This approach would also help build up reserves that are vital for national food security.
Additionally, the Poultry Association is advocating for a reduction in tariffs on imported supplies and equipment necessary for poultry production. They are proposing a zero-duty policy, which means no taxes on these imports, to help lower production costs and encourage growth in the industry.
Finally, the PAN reaffirmed its support for policies that limit the importation of frozen poultry products. They believe that by focusing on local production and attracting foreign investors to set up operations in Nigeria, the country can strengthen its poultry industry and reduce reliance on imported products.
