The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has warned that the price of a crate of eggs, currently ranging from N5,500 to N6,000, could rise to N10,000 shortly. This potential increase is attributed to the severe inflation that Nigeria is experiencing, which has led to skyrocketing prices for many essential commodities.
One of the key factors contributing to this situation is the recent hike in fuel prices, coupled with a scarcity of foreign exchange. These elements have significantly impacted the costs associated with poultry production, prompting concerns among industry stakeholders.
During a press conference held in Abuja to mark World Egg Day, Musa Hakeem, the PAN secretary for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urged the government to declare a state of emergency in the egg production sector. He emphasized that without immediate intervention, the anticipated price increase would be unavoidable.
Hakeem highlighted that the rising costs of transportation, stemming from the removal of fuel subsidies, are a major contributor to the escalating prices. Additionally, feed prices have surged, largely due to challenges faced by feed millers in the market.
He expressed that while the production costs are sharply increasing, the association has been able to keep the price of a crate at N5,500 out of consideration for consumers. However, this may not be sustainable if the current trends continue.
The lack of substantial governmental support has left poultry farmers feeling disheartened. Hakeem pointed out that the last significant assistance provided to poultry farmers in terms of grain support was three years ago, indicating a gap in governmental intervention.
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He called for enhanced collaboration between the government and poultry farmers, stressing that the association has detailed data on poultry producers that could facilitate more targeted and effective interventions.
In addition to Hakeem’s concerns, Jude Arikogu, an agro-dealer, raised issues regarding the quality and weight of poultry feed. He noted that many bags labeled as 25kg often weigh less than advertised, adding to the financial strain on farmers who are already grappling with rising operational costs.
Overall, the situation in Nigeria’s poultry sector is precarious, with farmers facing multiple challenges that threaten their livelihoods. The need for urgent action from the government and better support mechanisms for poultry farmers has never been more critical.
As the industry navigates these turbulent times, the collaboration between stakeholders and the government will be essential in stabilizing prices and ensuring the availability of affordable protein sources for the Nigerian population.
