Godsent Ogbebor
Poultry Farmers Cry Out as Egg Sales Drop in Jigawa
Poultry farmers in Jigawa State are raising alarm over declining egg sales, blaming the drop on worsening economic conditions and shrinking household incomes.
The Jigawa chapter of the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria made this known during a visit to Governor Umar Namadi in Dutse on Thursday. The group, led by its chairman, Hussaini Gumel, described the situation as alarming, saying the poultry business is now struggling to survive.
Gumel explained that the economic downturn following the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023 has made eggs a luxury many Nigerians can no longer afford. “Sales have fallen drastically because people simply don’t have the money,” he told the governor.
He also said the cost of poultry feed and other inputs have soared, making it even harder for farmers to break even. He pointed out price disparities between states, noting that feeds are cheaper in Plateau State than in Jigawa, placing local farmers at a disadvantage.
“We’re battling high costs, low sales, and now, we can’t even preserve what little we produce due to lack of cold storage facilities,” Gumel added. He appealed to the government for urgent support to prevent losses and help keep poultry businesses alive.
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The association is also seeking government-backed training and empowerment programs, especially for women who are heavily involved in small-scale poultry farming. Gumel suggested that eggs be added to the school feeding programme as a way to boost demand and keep the industry afloat.
Governor Namadi assured the farmers that the government would step in to address the challenges. He said his administration recognizes the role of poultry farming in job creation and food supply and would work with the association to find practical solutions.
Namadi also expressed interest in partnerships that could bring innovation and investment into the sector, promising to consider the group’s requests on training and access to affordable feed.
The plea from egg producers comes as many Nigerians continue to feel the economic pinch caused by subsidy removal, with the resulting inflation making basic food items harder to afford.
