The BATN Foundation (BATNF), in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Government and implemented by Eco-Lead Imperial Engineering and Global Services Limited, have successfully distributed 2,000 five-week-old Noiler chickens to 100 smallholder poultry farmers in Akwa Ibom State.
Launched on December 15, 2024, at the Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Project Premises (AKADEP), this initiative aims to empower rural farmers and enhance food security in the region.
Targeting vulnerable groups such as women—especially widows—youth, and individuals with disabilities, the project provided each participating farmer with 20 Noiler birds, a 25 kiligramme bag of poultry feed, and 150grammes of multivitamin sachets.
This initiative not only seeks to create a sustainable source of protein through egg and meat production but also aims to improve local chicken breeds via cross-mating practices.
During the flag-off ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, who represented the Commissioner Mr. Effiong Offor, announced transportation support of N5,000 for each beneficiary, highlighting the state government’s commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by farmers.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno, which aims to boost agricultural production in Akwa Ibom State,” she remarked.
Beneficiaries were selected through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PAN) in Akwa Ibom State, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), ensuring that support reached those most in need.
The General Manager of the BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya, expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “We are proud to support this project, which addresses immediate food security needs while empowering local farmers with the tools and resources necessary for sustainable livelihoods.
“This initiative represents a significant step in fostering economic empowerment among smallholder farmers across the country. It also reflects our commitment to economic development and enhancing the lives of individuals in the communities we serve.”
The Director of Veterinary Services in Akwa Ibom State, Teddy Essien, commended the BATN Foundation for the program, noting its potential to promote rural agriculture and improve local poultry species.
He encouraged beneficiaries to prioritize the health and productivity of the birds entrusted to them.
On his part, the Director of Livestock and Husbandry, Mr. Namokwo Orok, emphasised that the project aligns with the state government’s agricultural revolution agenda, stating, “This partnership is timely and critical for the advancement of agricultural practices in our communities.”
Odusanya further disclosed that the main objectives of this poultry project included enhancing food security and nutrition by providing a sustainable protein source for local communities, equipping women with practical skills for poultry production, and fostering gender equality and social inclusion.
The initiative, he added, aimed to empower women and youth, creating equal opportunities in agriculture while improving livelihoods and income-generating prospects for rural women.
He added that the BATN Foundation remains committed to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving the livelihoods of rural communities across Nigeria.
He added that this initiative represents a significant step toward achieving these goals and fostering economic empowerment among the country’s smallholder farmers.
