Nigeria’s poultry sector is bracing for a significant price surge, with the cost of a crate of eggs potentially rising to ₦10,000, according to the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN). Currently priced between ₦5,500 and ₦6,000, this potential hike is attributed to a combination of rising fuel costs, forex scarcity, and escalating feed prices.
During a news conference marking World Egg Day in Abuja, Musa Hakeem, Secretary of PAN in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), called on the government to declare a state of emergency in the egg production sector. He stressed that without swift intervention, the price increase could worsen the country’s already declining protein consumption.
“The sharp rise in transportation costs, fueled by the removal of fuel subsidies, and the skyrocketing prices of poultry feed due to feed millers have drastically increased production expenses,” said Hakeem. He added that despite production costs soaring, farmers have kept prices at ₦5,500 to ease the burden on consumers.
Hakeem expressed frustration over the lack of substantial governmental support, noting that poultry farmers last received grain assistance three years ago. He urged for better collaboration between the government and poultry farmers, highlighting that PAN has comprehensive data on poultry farmers that could facilitate more targeted interventions.
Jude Arikogu, an agro-dealer, also raised concerns about the quality and weight of poultry feed, citing instances where 25kg bags weigh less than stated, further compounding the financial strain on farmers.
With inflation continuing to impact essential commodities, experts are urging the government to act quickly to prevent a full-blown crisis in Nigeria’s poultry sector..
