Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Poultry farmers in the South-East have been urged to embrace new technologies and modern practices to enhance production.
Chief Izuolisa Onu, National Vice President (South-East zone) of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), gave the advice at the ongoing 2025 Eastern International Poultry Summit in Enugu.
He said that although the poultry business remained dynamic and challenging, it was still a very viable enterprise.
“We must be ready to develop our knowledge, build our capacities, and improve our efficiency to enable us grow.
“At this summit, let us embrace the new technologies and practices being presented,” he said.
Onu stressed the need for members of the association in the zone to unite and drive the growth of the poultry industry in the South-East.
“As ongoing collaborations with government and partners deepen, we must be prepared to tap into the opportunities that come with them,” he added.
Speaking at the event, the Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr. Patrick Ubru, described the summit as both timely and relevant.
“This summit comes at a pivotal moment for our state, the poultry industry, and the wider livestock sector across the South East, as we continue to pursue a future of sustainable growth, functionality, and resilience.
Over the past two years since Gov. Peter Mbah assumed office in 2023, his administration has remained steadfast in its commitment to transforming agriculture and agro-industry,” he said.
According to him, the Enugu State government has prioritised the agricultural sector as a driver of economic growth in line with the governor’s vision.
Ubru said this commitment was being realised through bold investments in technology-enabled extension services and strategic partnerships.
“This commitment includes participation in and support for the World Bank-assisted Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, which helps enhance productivity, resilience, and farmers’ livelihoods.
“Also, the construction and imminent commissioning of a regional Veterinary Hospital here in Enugu — a facility designed to strengthen disease surveillance, prevention, and clinical services across the South’East.
“In addition, there is comprehensive capacity building for livestock and poultry farmers, with significant participation from women and youth,” he said.
Also speaking, the State President of PAN, Chief Sunny Ezeobiorah, noted that demand for protein was increasing both in the region and across Nigeria.
He said poultry farmers in the South East and Nigeria at large were well positioned to seize the opportunity.
“We must see our work for what it truly is — a professional, high-impact business. This is a new era of professionalism.
“Our sector demands a new way of thinking,” Ezeobiorah stated.
One of the highlights of the event was the inspection of exhibition stands by the Commissioner.
