The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has called on the Federal Government to reduce tariffs on imported micro-inputs and poultry production equipment while implementing a zero-duty policy to lower production costs and drive industry growth. The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by PAN’s delegation, led by Patron and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Olatunde Badmus, to Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, in Abuja on Thursday.
During the meeting, Minister Maiha reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalizing the poultry sector. He emphasized the urgent need for large-scale cultivation of key grains such as maize, sorghum, and soybeans, which are critical to overcoming the challenges facing the industry. Maiha assured stakeholders that progress was underway, with efforts focused on fostering sustainable partnerships to strengthen Nigeria’s food security and economic stability.
The PAN delegation highlighted the pressing need for government intervention to stabilize market prices of essential grains like maize and soybeans by acting as the “buyer of last resort.” Such a move, they argued, would ensure adequate reserves for poultry feed production, stabilize costs, and safeguard the sector from supply chain disruptions.
The Association further urged the government to maintain its stance on restricting frozen poultry imports to encourage local production. PAN emphasized that sustaining these policies would not only protect domestic farmers but also attract foreign investors to establish poultry operations within Nigeria, contributing to the industry’s long-term growth.
With the sector playing a pivotal role in food security and economic development, PAN’s recommendations focus on creating an enabling environment for poultry farmers while reducing production costs to enhance productivity and profitability across the industry.
