By Obianuju Azukaego
A popular poultry and catfish farmer in Awka, Engr. Mrs. Mary Chinyere, has predicted a sharp increase in the cost of birds and possible scarcity during the Easter season, citing the high cost of fuel as a major factor.
Mrs. Chinyere made this known in an interview with information officer in Awka, noting that the rising cost of fuel has led to instability in feed prices.
She explained that the price of poultry feed has increased significantly, with 9mm feed now selling for ₦21,200, while 6mm feed costs ₦21,800.
According to her, this surge in feed prices is already having a negative impact on farmers.
As a result, many farmers have been forced to reduce the number of birds they rear in order to cope with the rising production costs.
“You know that one of the implications of farmers reducing the number of birds is scarcity. When there are not enough birds in circulation, demand will exceed supply, which will ultimately lead to higher prices,” she explained.
Mrs. Chinyere further lamented that virtually all food items have been adversely affected by the increase in fuel prices.
She, therefore, urged the federal government to put appropriate measures in place to curb inflation and support farmers across the country.
Obianuju is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
