Oyo Poultry Farmers Protest New ₦5 Slaughter Levy, Appeal To Governor Makinde For Relief

***News in brief:

• Oyo state chapter of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) is urging Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and stop the implementation of a newly introduced ₦5 per chicken slaughter levy.
• They argue that it will exacerbate challenges faced by struggling poultry farmers in the state and reduce the viability of poultry businesses in the state.*** The Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) in Oyo State has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and halt the implementation of a newly announced slaughter levy on chickens processed in private plants within the state. The levy, which mandates a ₦5 payment per chicken slaughtered, has been met with strong opposition from poultry farmers who argue that it will further burden an already struggling industry. In a statement signed by PAN chairman Oyekunle Omidokun and obtained local news outlets, the association highlighted the numerous challenges currently faced by poultry farmers, including scarcity and high cost of materials, and a shrinking industry PAN further emphasised that poultry farmers already comply with regulations and pay fees to various agencies, including NAFDAC and SON, for food safety and quality control. Also, they pointed out that they are subject to multiple taxes and levies from local, state, and federal governments, adding to their financial strain. Subsequently, the association expressed concern that the new levy would put Oyo State poultry farmers at a disadvantage compared to those in other states without such a tax. This, they argue, could hinder the government's efforts to achieve food security and align with President Bola Tinubu's mandate on agricultural hubs. PAN urged Governor Makinde to reconsider the levy and requested an outright reversal of the policy to ensure the continued viability of poultry businesses in Oyo State.