The Lagos State chapter of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has attributed the decline in egg sales to reduced consumer purchasing power, profit-driven retailers, and low consumption rates.
Speaking in an interview with journalists on Sunday in Lagos, the PAN Chairman, Mr. Mojeed Iyiola, emphasized that eggs remain the most affordable source of protein in Nigeria, despite the current dip in demand.
According to Iyiola, the drop in egg patronage is not limited to poultry farmers alone, as many consumable goods are facing similar challenges due to economic hardship. He noted that the financial strain on households—where income is often insufficient to cover both nutrition and other essential expenses—has made it difficult for families to prioritize egg purchases.
“Eggs are still the cheapest protein option available in Nigeria and are not as costly as many assume. A crate leaves the farm at less than N5,500,” Iyiola explained. “However, individual consumption habits differ. The belief that eggs are expensive is more of a perception than reality.”
The Lagos State Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Mr. Mojeed Iyiola, has pointed to excessive profiteering by retailers and middlemen as a major factor behind the declining sales of eggs.
He explained that although the farm gate price for a crate of eggs is around N5,500, some retailers inflate the price significantly—selling it for as much as N6,000 to N6,500. According to him, the ideal profit margin for retailers should not exceed N100 to N200 per crate, but many are taking advantage of the situation for personal gain.
“Retailers who purchase eggs at N5,500 often sell them at a much higher price, earning more than the poultry farmers who handle the entire production process. A profit of N1,000 per crate is excessive and unfair. Therefore, blaming farmers for the high prices or reduced patronage is misguided,” Iyiola stated.
He acknowledged that while the cost of raw materials plays a role in production expenses, it remains within manageable limits. Iyiola also mentioned that temporary financial support from the Lagos State Government had helped farmers reduce production costs in the past, but that support has since been suspended.
“The government’s subvention eased our burden for a while, but it’s currently on hold. We are still waiting for the promised palliatives to help stabilize production costs,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mr. Joel Oduware, a poultry processor, linked the reduced egg consumption and rising prices to the broader economic challenges affecting consumers nationwide.
He explained that despite the resumption of schools—which usually boosts egg demand—sales have remained low, particularly in some northern states. He attributed this trend to a decline in consumer disposable income and widespread financial strain.
“The current economic climate, both locally and globally, has significantly impacted purchasing power. People are no longer able to consume as they once did,” Oduware said.
He suggested that a slight price reduction might help reduce the recurring issue of egg surplus, but emphasized that any adjustment must still take production costs into account.
