PAN urges FG to fund poultry sector, tackle kidnapping of farmers

The Nigerian Poultry Association, PAN, has called on the Federal Government to invest more in the poultry sector, offer affordable long-term financing to farmers, and address the security concerns impacting poultry farms nationwide. At the 3-day Nigeria Poultry Show 2026 held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, PAN Southwest Zone Chairman Rev.

Oluleye Olugbeja made the recommendations during a discussion with over 100 vendors and exhibitors from Nigeria, China, India, Belgium, and Germany. He warned that kidnapping was driving farmers away from their farms, which is detrimental when Nigeria needs to boost food production. PAN also urged the government to collaborate with poultry farmers before implementing policies that could negatively impact the sector.

PAN's National Vice President, Southwest, Olugbeja, emphasized that food security should be treated as national security, asserting that a country cannot ensure long-term peace and stability without adequately feeding its population. Fed Secretary representing the Minister of Livestock Development, Mr Richard Umbara, stated that the government is committed to working with stakeholders to advance the poultry industry.

Bank of Agriculture Managing Director Ayo Sotinrin, who spoke on behalf of Mr Durojaye David, highlighted that the poultry industry contributes about ₦1.9 trillion to Nigeria's agricultural economy and is closely tied to the performance of key crops like maize, soybean, and sorghum. USSEC Country Market Lead Dr. Foluso Alabi noted that challenges such as high feed costs, currency volatility, climate disruptions, disease risks, and supply-chain bottlenecks are not unique to Nigeria but are affecting livestock producers worldwide.