The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PANOG), Ogun State Chapter, has frowned at the arbitrary prices of poultry products orchestrated by backyard poultry farmers during the yuletide season.

Speaking against the backdrop of inflated prices of poultry products in Abeokuta, the Chairman of the Ogun State Chapter, Poultry Association of Nigeria, Mr Yinka Lawal, disclosed that emergency backyard farmers, who rear poultry solely to profit from the season, infiltrated the market with aggressive online advertising strategies and exorbitant prices, leading to market distortions and subsequent losses.

Lawal stated that members of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, being responsible and ethical business-oriented people, did not overstock with unrealistic expectations of excessive profits.

He said, “We operate within established business ethics, focusing on sustainability and long-term contributions to the industry.”

He added that poultry farmers are among those affected by the hyperinflation affecting Nigeria’s economy, stressing the negative impact of exchange rates on imported materials that have affected their business.

The newly elected Chairman of the Poultry Association of Ogun State urged the three tiers of government to stop wasting money on frivolities and instead prioritise their commitment to boosting food production through mechanized farming.

He noted that only a few are in the business of food production for over 200 million Nigerians, stressing the need for a more concerted effort to encourage mechanized farming and disallow the trend of food insecurity in the country.

The PANOG Chairman explained that rather than buying SUVs, governments at all levels should invest in the purchase of tractors, and harvesters, among others, that could aid in the massive cultivation of vast arable land the country is blessed with to boost food production and tackle the challenge of hunger in the land.