By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
ABOUT 508 Tonnes of maize have been distributed to poultry farmers and 600 crates of eggs gifted to orphanages across Delta state.
This support aims to ease the rising cost of livestock feed, which has been affecting the poultry industry.
The Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Delta State, Chief Eric Tomfawei, emphasized the significance of the maize distribution.
He noted that the aid from the government has helped mitigate the impact of expensive feed, which has posed challenges for local poultry farmers.
On behalf of the association, Tomfawei expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his support, which was vital in stabilizing the industry.
He pointed out that the farmers have kept their promise to donate 600 crates of eggs to orphanages as a token of appreciation for the assistance received.
Tomfawei explained that 448 tonnes of maize were received in February 2024, followed by 60 tonnes in June.
The crates of eggs, distributed across orphanages, were part of the farmers’ produce from the maize relief.
Only 15 orphanages were present during the initial flag-off, with the rest to receive their allocations later through the local council PAN executives.
The gesture demonstrates how government support can make a difference.
“Eggs can be made available to the vulnerable at no cost,” Tomfawei noted, highlighting the potential to help those in need, especially children.
He instructed local PAN chairmen to ensure orphanages sign delivery notes upon receipt, which will be submitted to the state government for record-keeping.
Chief Tomfawei also urged the state government to improve security in parts of the state and appealed for a review of the quantity of maize allocated to PAN during the next phase of palliative distribution.
He stressed that only 1,200 bags of maize have been delivered, representing just 6.4% of the allocated amount, and asked for more to reach a broader section of farmers.
Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, Delta State Commissioner of Information, commended the poultry farmers for their goodwill during the egg donation event.
Representing the government, Mrs. Theresa Adiabua-Oliko, Permanent Secretary, acknowledged the gesture as an example of collective progress between the government and citizens.
She emphasized the importance of proper utilization of the eggs by the orphanages for the intended purpose.
A representative from Lumen Christi Family Orphanage, Asaba, Dr. Q.N. Nwaodua, expressed her gratitude for the donations, appreciating the poultry farmers’ efforts in supporting vulnerable children.
