In a bid to alleviate the challenges faced by poultry farmers, the Delta State Government took a significant step by distributing 7,660 bags, equivalent to 388 tonnes, of maize to members of the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PAN), Delta State Chapter.
The distribution of the maize took place at the ADP office in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area of the state on Thursday. Chief Jaro Egbo, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport and Secretary of the State Palliatives Committee, emphasized that this initiative aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's agenda to combat the soaring costs of feed production in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the distribution aims to reduce the high cost of living by promoting the production of locally consumed goods in the state. Chief Egbo emphasized that this effort will position Delta State to compete favorably with other states in terms of agricultural productivity.
The distribution exercise accounts for a portion of the 528 tonnes of maize that will be allocated to poultry farmers in the state. Chief Egbo highlighted that the verification process of the PAN's member list revealed an impressive compliance rate of approximately 97 percent.
"Our goal is to distribute a total of 528 tonnes of maize to poultry farmers in the state. Currently, we are releasing 7,660 bags, equivalent to 388 tonnes, to ensure that our poultry farmers receive the support they need. We will address any remaining concerns and determine the existence of other farms," stated the Secretary of the State Palliatives Committee. He also noted that the committee had previously distributed bags of rice throughout the state.
Hon. George Oyefia, the Executive Assistant to the State Governor on Agriculture, clarified that the current cycle of palliative distribution focuses on poultry farmers. However, he acknowledged that there are other associations, such as pig farmers and fish farmers, that will be included in future distribution cycles.
Highlighting the MORE Agenda, which stands for "Making Opportunities Reach Everyone," Hon. Oyefia emphasized the commitment to equitable opportunities for all farmers. He highlighted various agricultural projects, including a greenhouse and tomato project in Mbiri, as well as plans to allocate 1,000 hectares of land for rice cultivation during the dry season and to plant over three million palm trees to expand agricultural productivity.
Hon. Oyefia concluded by affirming the governor's dedication to farming as a means of tackling unemployment and ensuring food security. He expressed confidence that Delta State will become a prominent hub for farming activities in Nigeria in the near future, emphasizing that the distribution of palliatives will continue, extending support to both commodity farmers and crop farmers.
Chief Eric Tomfawei, the Chairman of the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PAN), Delta State Chapter, expressed gratitude to the governor for his policies and programs aimed at enhancing food security in the state. He assured the state government that the distributed palliatives would be utilized judiciously to boost productivity in the poultry sector.
