Simeon Shodimu
In an efforts at addressing the threat to the profitability of Poultry farmers, the Government of Oyo State Nigeria recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting to tackle the consistent rise in the prices of day-old chicks( DOC), a threat to profitability of poultry farmers and raising concerns over food security in the state.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, made this known recently during a meeting with poultry farmers, hatchery operators and other key industry players at the ministry’s conference room.
The Commissioner said the engagement was aimed at finding practical and sustainable solutions to the recurring price increases.
Olaleye expressed concern that despite the various interventions and investments made by the Oyo State Government in the agricultural sector, the cost of day-old chicks has continued to climb, placing additional financial strain on poultry farmers and negatively impacting food production.
The Commissioner reiterated the government of Oyo State’s commitment to strengthening the poultry industry, describing it as a critical component of the state’s food security and economic development agenda.
He further expressed that achieving sustainable growth in the sector requires collective responsibility and cooperation among all stakeholders.
Olaleye pleaded with hatchery operators and marketers to consider a downward review of prices to complement government efforts aimed at boosting local poultry production, stabilising the market and making poultry products more affordable for residents.
The Vice Chairman, Poultry Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Mr. Kayode Okunowo,in his remarks commended the government for its proactive steps toward curbing arbitrary price hikes.
He appealed that the state institutionalise periodic stakeholders’ meetings to ensure continuous dialogue and lasting solutions within the sector.
Speaking also at the event, the Vice Chairman of the hatchery stakeholders, Rev. Tunde Owolabi, called on the government to intensify public sensitisation on the nutritional and economic benefits of regular consumption of chicken and eggs.
He appealed further for a supportive measures to help day-old chick operators manage the heavy debts currently affecting players across the value chain, pledging stakeholders’ renewed commitment to collaborate with the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde in advancing food security in the state.
The representatives of Agrited Nigeria Limited, Ajila Value Adding Venture, BreedWell Nigeria Limited, Fiden Investment Limited, CHI Farms Limited, Saheed Farms, Bestline Farms, Zartech Limited, Obasanjo Farms Nigeria Limited, among others, were present at the meeting.
Tribune online of 3rd reported the efforts of the state at curbing the rising cost of day old chicks in the state at a stakeholders meeting which is considered a welcomed development for the survival of poultry farmers in the state
