By Al Humphrey Onyanabo
NIGERIA’s POULTRY industry has witnessed a surge in recent years, with many entrepreneurs venturing into broiler farming as a means of livelihood.
However, this growth has also attracted unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit unsuspecting farmers.
The proliferation of scammers in the industry has made it increasingly difficult for genuine farmers to navigate the complex web of day-old chick suppliers.
The crux of the problem lies in the sourcing of day-old chicks, a critical component of broiler farming. Since Christmas, the price of day-old chicks has skyrocketed from N400 to N1,650, making it a lucrative business for scammers.
These unscrupulous individuals have taken to social media, advertising day-old chicks at significantly lower prices, often between N400 to N900. This seemingly attractive offer has led many farmers to fall prey to these scammers.
The scam is ingenious in its simplicity. Scammers print fake packaging and fill it with cockerels, which are then sold as broilers to unsuspecting farmers. Cockerels, being the younger cousins of broilers, take significantly longer to mature, often up to a year.
Broilers mature in weeks. That’s the difference. By the time the farmer realizes their mistake, they would have invested heavily in feed and care, only to incur significant losses. People are wicked
To avoid falling victim to these scammers, it is essential to exercise caution when sourcing day-old chicks. The following tips can help:
1. Be wary of unusually low prices: If the price is significantly lower than the market rate, it may be a scam.
2. Verify the supplier: Ensure that you are dealing with a reputable and trusted supplier.
3. Visit the market: The Oluyole estate area in Ibadan, Oyo State, is a hub for day-old chick suppliers and everythingpoultry. Visiting the market in person can help you identify genuine suppliers. There are loads of fake people in this market. It’s a jungle. But there are also lots of good people selling genuine stuff out there. Shine your eyes.
4. Take your time: Never rush into a purchase. Take the time to research, verify, and inspect the chicks before making a purchase. Go on YouTube, Tit tok, telegram etc. Do research. Ask questions.
5. Seek recommendations: Ask for referrals from trusted friends, family, or fellow farmers.
In conclusion, the rise of scammers in Nigeria’s poultry industry is a pressing concern that requires vigilance and caution. By being aware of these scams and taking the necessary precautions, farmers can protect themselves from financial losses and ensure the sustainability of their businesses. Remember, in the world of broiler farming, it’s essential to keep your wits about you and beware of hawks in the broiler pen. The Storyteller knows a lot of things. Ask me.
