The project is in line with the mandate of SMEDAN to stimulate, monitor and coordinate the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. The mapping of the poultry sector in Lagos, Nigeria will provide real time data to ensure more effective advocacy and business development services to resolve the challenges impeding the growth of the sector.

In addition to SMEDAN, Palatehub, and ICC-CoE, other stakeholders present at the meeting were from the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperative, the Poultry Association of Nigeria and Big Dutchman Nigeria.

During the meeting, Stakeholders expressed the urgent need for real time data on the poultry sector for policy design and implementation especially in the areas of job creation and public health. Although there were concerns expressed with regards to the scope of the project, the general consensus was to proceed with a pilot project on a public-private-partnership basis.

ICC-CoE, represented by Mrs. Bunmi Osuntuyi, the Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria, expressed support for the project. She explained that the objective of the ICC-CoE is to inspire future entrepreneurs; digitize SMEs; scale up startups; and foster inclusive entrepreneurship.

To conclude the meeting, Stakeholders agreed that SMEDAN and Palatehub will develop a workplan and convene a second meeting of stakeholders to launch to data-gathering aspects of the project.

The project which is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 5: Women Empowerment and Gender Equality was also facilitated and supported by the Uyo Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (UYOCCIMA) and Palatehub.

Addressing the farmers, the field representative of Zowasel, Mrs. Priscilla Charles Udoh explained that Smallholder farmers in Akwa Ibom State are yet to significantly increase their yield per hectare, as the State still records the lowest among its peers.This she said has happened despite the enormous potential in Akwa Ibom’s agricultural sector.

She pointed out that Smallholder farmers have limited access to improved seeds and seedlings, machinery, and training. As a result, farm yields and farmers’ income has remained perpetually low, thus making the sector unattractive to the younger population.

Over 150 women drawn from across the ten political wards in Okobo attended the training and expressed their willingness to participate in the practical training which will commence soon.

Victor Paul Unoh | First Media NaijaTV | Uyo
victorunoh@gmail.com