Abuja, Nigeria – Poultry Association of Nigeria Warns of Imminent Egg Price Hike Amid Economic Challenges
The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has issued a stark warning regarding the potential surge in egg prices, which could rise from the current N5,500 to N10,000 per crate if urgent measures are not taken to support poultry farmers. This alarming prediction stems from the increased costs associated with transportation, particularly following the removal of the fuel subsidy, as well as significant price hikes in poultry feed by millers.
At a press briefing held in Abuja to commemorate World Egg Day, Musa Hakeem, Secretary of PAN’s FCT Chapter, called for immediate action from the Federal Government. He emphasized the necessity of declaring a state of emergency in egg production due to a serious decline in protein intake among Nigerians, stressing that the country cannot afford to rely on egg imports.
Hakeem stated, “If we should go by the proportional increase in the prices of these factors mentioned earlier, we will be buying eggs at N10,000 per crate. However, in an act of compassion and considering the nutritional importance of eggs, we have kept the price at the current rate of N5,500.” He cautioned that prices could soon escalate to N6,000 as feed costs continue to rise.
He noted that the last significant government intervention in grain supply occurred three years ago, asserting that other government measures aimed at mitigating food prices are often mere headlines without tangible support. Hakeem urged the government to collaborate with PAN in their intervention efforts, as the association possesses comprehensive data on poultry farmers in the FCT.
Highlighting the neglect of the poultry subsector, Hakeem lamented that business owners have been left to operate independently, expressing concern over the industry’s sustainability.
Jude Arikogu, Chief Executive Officer of Pest Agro Dealers, echoed Hakeem’s sentiments, criticizing the indiscriminate price increases by feed millers and the insufficient weight of feed bags, stating that a 25kg bag often weighs less than 23kg on their scales. He also pointed out that poultry farmers face challenges in obtaining financing from banks, which are reluctant to support their ventures.
Ibrahim Lamidi, an Ex officio officer at the national level of PAN, remarked that the current business environment is unfavorable for poultry farmers, who strive to ensure that Nigerians have access to eggs. He encouraged Nigerians to prioritize eggs as a more affordable source of protein compared to meat, emphasizing their nutritional benefits.
As the poultry sector grapples with these challenges, it is clear that decisive action from the government is essential to prevent a further decline in egg production and ensure food security for the nation.