The Ogun State chapter of the poultry Association Of Nigeria joins her counterpart in Nigeria and across the globe to celebrate year 2020 WORLD EGG DAY.
WORLD EGG DAY was established in Vienna in 1996 to raise awareness of the benefits of eggs and their importance in human nutrition. today the event is celebrated across the globe, as countries continue to promote the importance of eggs and Nigeria has joined in observing this date for over two decades.
It is worthy of note that poultry farmers in Ogun state and in Nigeria are committed to making eggs available to our teaming population during this pandemic in ensuring healthy food security notwithstanding all critical associated challenges posed by the Corona Virus. which includes;
HIGH COST OF PRODUCTION: OUR MAJOR INPUTS IN POULTRY FEED IS GRAIN- Maize and soya: currently these two grains sell for 85% and 45% higher than it sold this time last year respectively. they both make up 80-85% of our feed cost which also account for 75-80% of our cost. prices of poultry feed are at all time high of about n4000 25kg bag this represents about 35-40% higher than normal.
PERIODIC GLUT – this is due to low demands and our consumption pattern which is still averse to figures from developing and developed countries. our per capital consumption of egg is still below 80 per person per annum. the effect of glut is usually devastating as the farmers have no choice than to sell eggs at far less than production costs or resort to destruction at severe situations. this will not make for a steady growth in this sub sector so we call for government to take interest by encouraging the establishment of egg processing plants in states with production advantage.
SEED COST – the poultry farmer’s seed is the day old chicks: the current price of day old chicks is 65 – 100% higher than it sold last year and farmers have to pay for several weeks in advance before supply. our breeder farmers and hatcheries also have their challenges but current situation does not favour sustainability of the sector.
We appeal to the Government to look at the following solutions proffered to the Association.
LARGE SCALE MECHANISED AND COMMECIALISED FARMING as opposed to subsistent farming currently practiced will help to resolve issues around insufficient and expensive grains like maize and soya.
Establishment of Powder Egg Processing Plants through a public/private partnership in States with production advantage
Government approving license to indigenous firms to import Grand Parent stock which will also allow healthy competition and stock availability at the right price.
