Egg prices in Nigeria have skyrocketed to as much as N8,500 per crate due to a severe shortage of day-old chicks. According to Mojeed Iyiola, chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, Lagos branch, the scarcity is caused by the unavailability of day-old chicks. Poultry farmers currently have no access to these chicks, with all hatcheries fully booked.
The chairman attributed the crisis to the sale of old layers, leaving farmers without a steady supply of chicks. When farmers attempt to book chicks, they face unavailability and increasing prices. This has led to a significant price hike, with a crate of eggs now selling for between N6,500 and N8,500 in most parts of the country.
In comparison, a kilo of chicken or beef sells for around N6,000 to N7,000 in Abuja markets, making a crate of eggs more expensive than these protein sources.
The Poultry Association of Nigeria's chairman, Mojeed Iyiola, has laid bare the alarming truth behind Nigeria's egg shortage. The lack of day-old chicks is the primary cause of the crisis, and it is imperative that the government takes swift action to address this issue. The skyrocketing egg prices have severe implications for everyday Nigerians, who are already grappling with the high cost of living. With a crate of eggs now more expensive than chicken or beef, it is clear that the government's inaction is having a direct impact on the pockets of Nigerians. The price hike is a stark reminder of the need for effective agricultural policies and support for poultry farmers.
