The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PANLAG) has recently convened to discuss the pressing issues facing the poultry industry in Lagos State, emphasizing a need for diversification and enhanced efficiency to combat challenges that threaten food security and sustainability. The event was led by PANLAG Chairman Mojeed Iyiola, who addressed the alarming reality that many poultry farms are shutting down due to factors such as rising insecurity, climate change, and economic instability. Iyiola stressed the vital role the poultry sector plays in protein production for West Africa and described the troubling trend of decreasing production levels. He called upon industry stakeholders to unite in collective action to safeguard the poultry farming sector and its future viability.
During the conference, various industry experts highlighted different strategies to overcome the challenges faced by poultry farmers. Professor Olajide Sogunle, representing the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, presented a compelling case for diversification within Nigeria’s poultry industry. He criticized the over-dependence on certain breeds, particularly broilers and layers, which dominate the current farming landscape. According to Sogunle, broadening the scope of poultry farming to encompass alternative breeds and even integrating ventures like fish farming could facilitate greater resilience in the industry. He noted that many Nigerian farmers tend to follow trends rather than explore innovative practices that could enhance their business operations.
Sogunle also lamented the tendency of farmers to overlook valuable research that could help reduce production costs, especially regarding the utilization of alternative feed resources. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between farmers and academic researchers, advocating for a more open mindset among farmers toward innovation. By incorporating new ideas and practices derived from scientific study, farmers could increase their efficiency and productivity, ultimately contributing to the overall stability of the poultry sector.
Adding to the dialogue, Dr. James Wageti, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Adamore Nigeria Ltd, underlined the necessity of farm efficiency as a survival tactic amidst difficult circumstances. He pointed out that many poultry farmers face losses due to a lack of essential skills in stockmanship, which involves effectively managing birds based on keen observation and experience. Wageti emphasized that farmers must hone their abilities to “listen” to their birds, noting that signs of distress or illness can often go unnoticed by those without adequate knowledge or training in animal care.
Wageti further explained that effective stockmanship could translate into significant savings for farmers, as basic sensory observations often reveal crucial opportunities for intervention before issues escalate. He argued that understanding the behavioral patterns of poultry—such as changes in feeding, activity, or health—could empower farmers to make informed decisions that protect their livestock and enhance operational efficiency. Ultimately, the presentations at the conference encapsulated a strong message: for poultry farming in Nigeria to thrive, stakeholders must invest in both knowledge and practical skills, fostering an adaptable and innovative approach to agriculture.
In summary, the Poultry Association of Nigeria’s conference underscored the urgent need for collaboration, innovation, and diversification within the poultry industry. With rising challenges such as insecurity, climate change, and poor efficiency threatening livelihoods and food security, stakeholders must heed the call to evolve and adapt their practices. The insights shared by experts like Professors Sogunle and Wageti reveal a pathway forward, where farmers embrace new opportunities and refine their management skills. If these recommendations are adopted, the poultry sector could not only stabilize but flourish in the face of adversity, ensuring a sustainable future for protein production across West Africa.
