By Ebele Iyke Odili
As Christians mark the Easter celebration, poultry farmers in Anambra State have revealed that the price of chicken has remained relatively stable, despite prevailing economic challenges across the country.
A poultry farmer based in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, Mr. Ugochukwu Oguejiofor, disclosed in an interview that while the cost of raising birds has increased significantly, many farmers have been forced to sell their chickens earlier than expected due to the high cost of feeding.
According to him, the economic pressure has made it difficult for some poultry farmers to sustain their birds to full maturity, leading to an influx of relatively younger chickens in the market.
“The price of chicken did not really increase this Easter, but because of the high cost of living in Nigeria, many poultry farmers cannot afford to feed their birds to the expected number of weeks,” he said.
“They push them to the market earlier just to reduce the cost of feeding and make ends meet.”
Mr. Oguejiofor explained that larger poultry operators who have the capacity to sustain production still adhere to standard practices by selling birds according to their age and weight, while smaller farmers often opt for quicker sales at lower prices.
“People like us who run bigger poultry farms still sell our birds based on their proper age. But you will see others selling at lower prices because they cannot continue feeding them. In all, it is still the effect of the high cost of living,” he added.
He, however, called for government intervention to support farmers and ease the burden of rising production costs in the sector.
“We are appealing to the government to come to our aid so that farmers can sustain production,” he said.
The poultry farmer also commended the Anambra State Government under Charles Chukwuma Soludo for creating an enabling environment that has supported business activities during the festive period.
He particularly noted that the regular payment of salaries to civil servants has helped boost patronage, as more residents are able to afford basic commodities for the Easter celebration.
“We appreciate the government of Anambra State for paying workers as and when due. It has really helped, because people now have money to patronize us,” he said.
Mr. Oguejiofor further expressed gratitude to God for life and sustenance, noting that despite the economic challenges, farmers remain hopeful for better days ahead.
Ebele is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
