Poultry industry accounts for 25% of Nigeria’s agric GDP — PAN

The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, says the poultry industry contributes over 25 percent to Nigeria’s agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The association disclosed this in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to mark the 2025 World Egg Day, celebrated every second Friday in October. This year’s theme is “Mighty Egg: Packed with Natural Nutrition.”

Mr. Bello Ibrahim, a board member of PAN, FCT chapter, said the poultry sub-sector plays a vital role in Nigeria’s economy, employing more than 25 million people directly and indirectly — about 10 percent of the country’s population.

“Currently, Nigeria is the largest egg producer in Africa, with an annual output of over 650 million tonnes of eggs,” Ibrahim said.

He, however, noted that smallholder farmers, who make up more than 60 percent of the industry, face persistent challenges such as the high cost of feed and day-old chicks, limited access to credit, and insufficient government support.

Ibrahim explained that despite recent reductions in maize prices following government policies, the decline has not significantly reflected in feed costs for small-scale farmers.

“For any farmer to benefit from the drop in maize prices, they must own at least 8,000 layers to produce their own feed. Most farmers in the FCT fall below this capacity,” he said.

He added that large-scale producers, who can produce feed at lower costs, often dictate market prices, making it difficult for small farmers to compete.

“If feed prices align with market realities, small farmers will have reduced production costs, leading to cheaper eggs for consumers,” Ibrahim said.

He emphasised that World Egg Day aims to raise awareness about the nutritional and economic benefits of eggs.

“Despite the tough economic conditions, eggs remain the most affordable source of protein. With between N150 and N200, anyone can afford one,” he added.

Similarly, former PAN FCT chairman, Mr. Chima Wilson, said this year’s theme underscores the egg’s crucial role in promoting health and nutrition.

“Eggs may look small, but they are packed with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins A, E, and B-complex — all vital for healthy living,” Wilson noted.

He urged federal, state, and local governments to support poultry farmers by reducing production costs, offering credit facilities, and improving market access.

“Government can also buy eggs from farmers for school feeding programmes, orphanages, and vulnerable groups. This will encourage continuous production,” Wilson suggested.

He further appealed for tax incentives and other support measures to sustain growth in the poultry sector and enhance national food security.