Follow Us on Google
From Geoffrey Anyanwu, Enugu
Poultry farmers under the aegis of Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), South East zone, has expressed concern over the adverse effects of Nigeria’s harsh economic conditions on the poultry industry in the region.
The association charged members, particularly those in the South East zone, to embrace new technologies and modern practices for better production.
PAN’s national vice president, South East zone, Chief Izuolisa Onu, who gave the advice at the 2025 Eastern International Poultry Summit in Enugu, with the theme, “Professionalising and building efficiency for growth,” said though the poultry business was dynamic with challenges, it remained a very viable business.
He said: “We must be ready to develop our knowledge, build our capacities, and improve on our efficiency to be able to grow. At this summit, let us embrace the new technologies and practices being presented.”
Harping on the need for unity among PAN members in the zone, so as to drive the growth of the poultry industry in the South East region, Onu said: “As ongoing collaborations with government and partners are deepened, we must be prepared to tap into the opportunities that stem from there.”
Lamenting the harsh economy, he said the industry had been severely affected by high inflation and deregulation, which have led to skyrocketing costs of raw materials and declining consumer purchasing power.
Other News
He stressed that the poultry sector had remained a key contributor to the nation’s agricultural economy, despite the setbacks, as it accounts for about 25 percent of the Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (AGDP).
He said: “Over the past years, the industry has faced numerous challenges, some of which persist. Deregulation and high inflation have reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians, thereby hitting sales and marketing of our products. A significant portion of society still does not see poultry as an everyday essential.
“We have also grappled with the high cost and near unavailability of raw materials. However, the Federal Government’s decision to allow grain importation provided relief and has kept over 80 percent of us in business. We must commend both the government and the leadership of PAN for persistent advocacy that made this possible.”
Declaring the summit open, Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, described the summit as timely, noting that the state government had prioritised agriculture as a driver of economic growth under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
The state government, he disclosed, was investing in technology-enabled extension services and forging strategic partnerships to modernise the sector.
He said: “Since Governor Mbah assumed office in 2023, his administration has remained steadfast in its commitment to transforming agriculture and agro-industry in the state.”
The Enugu State President of PAN, Chief Sunny Ezeobiorah, on his part, said the increase in demand for protein in the South East and across Nigeria, had placed poultry farmers in a strategic position to tap into emerging opportunities.
