Nigerian Poultry Farmers Warn Against $900 Million China Deal, Fear Local Industry Collapse
LAGOS, Nigeria — Nigerian poultry farmers are raising alarms over a proposed $900 million agricultural partnership between the federal government and China, arguing it could devastate local producers if not carefully managed.
The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) voiced its concerns in interviews with local media on Thursday, warning that the deal—aimed at establishing a massive egg production facility—might undercut domestic farmers instead of strengthening food security as intended.
A Deal for Eggs, But at What Cost?
The Nigerian government has been negotiating with China to build a large-scale poultry operation capable of producing six million eggs daily. Officials say the project will address the country’s protein deficit and reduce reliance on food imports.
However, PAN members argue that the focus should be on empowering local farmers rather than inviting foreign competition.
Foluso Adams, Vice Chairman of PAN in Lagos and head of the Aiyedoto Poultry Farmers Settlement, told reporters that the deal risks sidelining Nigerian producers.
“Instead of bringing in foreign investors, the government should help us expand our own capacity,” Adams said. “If local farmers are supported, we can not only meet Nigeria’s demand but also export to other West African nations.”
Health and Economic Risks
PAN’s national publicity secretary, Godwin Egbebe, raised additional concerns about food safety and economic instability.
“This partnership could hurt both farmers and consumers,” Egbebe said. “Before signing any deal, the government must consider the health implications of imported poultry practices and whether Nigerians can even afford the products.”
He pointed out that Nigeria’s poultry sector struggles more with weak consumer purchasing power than production shortages. Flooding the market with cheap, mass-produced eggs could drive small farmers out of business, he warned.
A Call for Local Investment
Industry leaders are urging the government to redirect funding toward domestic poultry development. They argue that with better access to loans, feed subsidies, and infrastructure, Nigerian farmers could scale up production without foreign intervention.
“We don’t need foreign investors to solve our food problems—we need policies that help Nigerian farmers thrive,” Adams emphasized.
The debate comes as Nigeria grapples with rising food inflation and economic strain. While foreign investment may seem like a quick fix, poultry farmers insist that sustainable growth must come from within.
What’s Next?
The federal government has yet to respond to the farmers’ concerns. If the deal proceeds without safeguards, industry experts fear it could trigger job losses and further destabilize Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
For now, PAN is calling for urgent dialogue with policymakers to ensure local farmers aren’t left behind.
— Reported by Nexio News
