The Vanguard Newspaper has raised alarm over the plight of poultry farmers, revealing through its official X handle that unsold stock has left many in the industry grappling with unprecedented losses. According to the report, farmers were left disheartened as consumers turned their backs on chicken during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, traditionally known as a time when poultry sales soar.
In the weeks leading up to the festive season, poultry farmers worked tirelessly, anticipating brisk sales fueled by the cultural and culinary significance of chicken during these celebrations. Many invested heavily in their stock, confident that the demand would match the joyous occasion. However, the harsh reality struck when buyers failed to show up in the expected numbers, leaving farms with enormous unsold inventory and significant financial burdens.
“This is the worst festive season we’ve ever experienced,” lamented Mr. Emmanuel Chukwu, a poultry farmer from Ogun State. “We had high hopes because, historically, Christmas and New Year are times when even the poorest families manage to buy chicken for their celebrations. But this year, the reverse was the case.”
The massive dip in sales has been attributed to the worsening economic situation in the country, which has left many Nigerians prioritizing basic survival over festive indulgences. The rising cost of living, fueled by inflation and high transportation costs, made chicken unaffordable for many households.
Another farmer, Mrs. Amina Bello, shared her frustration, stating, “The cost of rearing these chickens has skyrocketed. Feed prices have doubled, and we still had to sell at a loss because people just couldn’t afford them. It’s devastating for us.”
Industry analysts fear that the fallout from this downturn could be long-lasting, with many small-scale poultry farmers potentially being forced out of business. The ripple effect could lead to reduced poultry production in the coming months, further straining an already struggling agricultural sector.
In response to the situation, the Poultry Association of Nigeria has called on the government to step in with palliatives to support farmers and stabilize the sector. They have also urged policymakers to address inflation and the rising costs of feed and transportation, which are squeezing profit margins and discouraging investment in agriculture.
The disappointment of poultry farmers highlights a deeper issue affecting Nigeria’s festive traditions and food security. As the nation continues to grapple with economic challenges, the once-universal joy of sharing a hearty chicken meal during Christmas and New Year celebrations is increasingly becoming a luxury rather than a norm.
The question now remains: can the government and stakeholders rise to the challenge to prevent further losses and ensure that poultry farming remains a viable enterprise in Nigeria?
PIONEER NEWS 