Poultry farmers explore options as cost of feed rises
Nigeria’s small-scale poultry farmers face mounting challenges as inflation drives feed costs to unprecedented levels, forcing many out of business while others operate below capacity. These challenges are acutely felt in the Oza-Nagogo community of Ika South Local Government Area, Delta State, where farmers supported by the Federal Government’s LIFE-ND program navigate hyperinflation through knowledge sharing and innovative practices.
Mr. Omosigho Benson, a poultry farmer and LIFE-ND desk officer, emphasized the need for adaptive strategies, including practical training, modern farming practices, and effective record-keeping. Farmers are encouraged to stock fewer birds but prioritize good management practices to ensure profitability.
Despite these efforts, farmers like Mercy Uzakpolor and Gospel Enabulele struggle to sustain operations due to skyrocketing feed costs, with feed prices reaching ₦25,000 per bag. Both farmers, beneficiaries of the LIFE-ND program, credit their training for providing resilience but acknowledge the pressing need for innovative solutions, such as feed blending and collaborative sourcing, to mitigate inflation’s effects.
The LIFE-ND program continues to play a vital role in equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate these turbulent times. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of leveraging modern techniques and group collaborations to sustain operations and explore new growth opportunities.
Source- Daily Trust
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The report sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of small-scale poultry farmers in the face of inflation-driven challenges. Below are expert insights and recommendations for stakeholders across the value chain:
- Feed Costs and Sourcing Strategies
Challenge: Feed costs, accounting for 70-80% of poultry production expenses, have soared, making it difficult for farmers to break even.
Solution: Farmers should explore blending feeds locally, leveraging available grains and by-products to create cost-effective alternatives. Training programs must prioritize feed formulation techniques to empower farmers like Mercy Uzakpolor.
Collaboration: Farmer groups should bulk-purchase feed ingredients to negotiate better prices and reduce individual costs. - Adaptive Stocking and Management Practices
Stock Size: Farmers are encouraged to focus on smaller but well-managed stocks, ensuring optimal yield per bird.
Management Techniques: Employ biosecurity measures and disease prevention strategies to minimize losses and maximize productivity. - Market Positioning and Value Addition
Egg Market: Eggs remain in consistent demand. Farmers should tap into bulk sales agreements with buyers like retailers or processors to stabilize income.
Processed Products: Diversify offerings by producing processed chicken products, which may offer higher profit margins. - Financial Management and Record-Keeping
Farmers must meticulously track costs and revenues to evaluate profitability. Programs like LIFE-ND should continue to stress the importance of data-driven decisions in farm operations. - Policy and Support Mechanisms
Government Role: Subsidized feed and inputs should be made available to mitigate the adverse effects of inflation.
Private Sector Engagement: Encourage private partnerships for affordable input distribution and access to innovative technologies. - Long-Term Opportunities
Training and Mentorship: LIFE-ND’s mentorship model has proven effective. Expanding such initiatives nationwide can improve farmers’ resilience.
Export Potential: Poultry farmers can explore export markets for eggs and processed chicken to generate foreign exchange and offset local cost pressures.Conclusion
Nigeria’s poultry sector faces formidable challenges, but resilience lies in knowledge sharing, modern practices, and collaborative efforts. By addressing feed costs, emphasizing market strategies, and leveraging programs like LIFE-ND, small-scale farmers can navigate the current economic climate and contribute to national food security.
