By Celina Nguwaswen Terna.
Residents in Benue State are struggling to afford eggs due to a significant price increase, which has made it challenging to maintain a balanced diet. The price of eggs per crate has surged from ₦5,500 to ₦6,000 in just a few months.
Marketers attribute the high cost of eggs to factors such as expensive feeds, transportation, and the activities of middlemen. Blessing Ogbonna, an egg retailer at Wurukum Market, lamented that the business has seasonal fluctuations, and the price drops when it is not the peak season for egg production.
Poultry farmers in the state claim that inadequate government support has made it difficult to produce eggs at affordable prices. Tamen Torkuma Timothy, manager of Tadif Farm Nig. Ltd, explained that optimal egg production requires proper feeding, watering, and healthcare, which are costly.
Another poultry farmer, Samson of Divine Proof Animal Care, noted that the cost of bird feed varies between ₦19,000 to ₦25,000 per bag, depending on the quality and quantity.
The high cost of eggs has also affected businesses that rely heavily on eggs, such as bakeries. Queen Torkwase Terfa, a baker at Etsy Cakes and Pastries, explained that eggs play a crucial role in baking, adding moisture, richness, and flavor to baked goods.
To address the challenges facing the poultry industry, the Benue State Government recently held a livestock summit, which aimed to provide support, initiatives and partnerships for farmers. The summit highlighted the need for a viable egg hatching company and measures to reduce competition from established egg producers.
The State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, emphasized the significance of the livestock sector in addressing food insecurity, generating wealth, and contributing to Nigeria’s GDP. The government is partnering with stakeholders to establish a solar hatchery and provide opportunities for investors and feed production.
