The Ekiti State Government has issued a biosecurity advisory to poultry farmers and stakeholders, warning that poor hygiene practices and uncontrolled movement of birds could expose the state’s poultry sector to disease outbreaks.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday.
Boluwade noted that the post-yuletide period is usually characterised by increased movement of poultry and poultry products, as farmers rush to restock empty pens.
According to him, frequent farm-to-farm movement of birds and equipment can accelerate the spread of infectious poultry diseases, posing serious threats to farmers’ investments and the long-term sustainability of the industry.
The Commissioner urged poultry farmers to strictly observe standard biosecurity measures, including sourcing day-old chicks and other poultry birds only from reputable and verifiable suppliers.
He also cautioned against sharing farm equipment and allowing unauthorised visitors into poultry farms.
Boluwade advised farmers to promptly report any signs of illness or unusual mortality in their flocks to the nearest veterinary office or seek immediate professional intervention to prevent the spread of diseases.
He further reminded members of the public that the Federal Government’s ban on the importation of poultry products into Nigeria remains in force, stressing that Ekiti State is not exempted.
The Commissioner encouraged residents to support local farmers by patronising locally produced and healthy poultry products.
Boluwade reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to safeguarding the poultry value chain, ensuring food security, protecting farmers’ livelihoods and promoting public health in the state.
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