Yinka Lawal, the newly elected Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter (PANOG), has called on all levels of government to prioritize mechanized farming to enhance food production in 2025 over purchase of luxury vehicles.
He criticized expenditures on luxury items, such as SUVs, suggesting that funds should instead be allocated to agricultural machinery like tractors and harvesters to utilize Nigeria’s vast arable land effectively.
Lawal emphasized that only a small fraction of the population is involved in food production for over 200 million Nigerians.
Without government support for mechanized farming, he warned that food insecurity would worsen, leading to escalating food prices.
He made these remarks during a press briefing at the poultry farmers’ secretariat in Abeokuta.
Addressing the high cost of poultry products during the recent festive season, Lawal attributed the price surge to “emergency backyard poultry farmers” and middlemen seeking to maximize profits.
He clarified that PANOG members did not sell chickens above ₦15,000, contrary to reports of prices ranging between ₦25,000 and ₦30,000.
Lawal urged seasonal poultry farmers to join the association to benefit from bulk purchasing and access to information that can reduce production costs.
He stated, “As members of the poultry association, there are benefits that we enjoy, such as buying our feeds in bulk and selling at a cheaper price to our members than what is obtainable in the market.”
He also highlighted the importance of addressing insecurity to enable farmers to operate without fear, stating, “People must feel secure to go about their farming business.”
Lawal called for a shift in government spending priorities, advocating for investment in agricultural infrastructure over luxury expenditures to combat hunger and boost the economy.