Abia State has completed a three-day training programme for poultry farmers from all its Local Government Areas. The aim is to increase meat production and improve long-term food security.
At the opening ceremony held at the Abia Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) Office in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzo Nwachukwu, said the training was created to teach farmers modern and effective ways of raising livestock. He explained that the goal is to improve standards, increase production, and build a strong poultry industry across the state.
Under the Local Government Agricultural Intervention Scheme, which works with the ADP, six people were selected from each LGA five farmers and one farm manager. They will return to their communities to share the knowledge they gained.
Prince Nwachukwu added that the state is also training farmers in piggery, maggot production, and pepper farming in different training centers. He praised Governor Alex Chioma Otti for investing in agriculture and encouraged the farmers to use what they have learned to help their communities.
The Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission, Dr. Ezinne Judith Ngwakwe, advised participants to see poultry farming as a profitable, long-term business that can provide steady income.
The Programme Manager of Abia ADP, Mr. Okoro Nleanya Kalu, announced that each trainee will receive starter kits, including birds, equipment, and other basic items. He also said that modern poultry centers will be set up in selected LGAs, each to be run by a trained farm manager. The plan is to create a large network of skilled farmers who will train others and increase the state’s livestock production.
During the training, one of the facilitators, Mrs. Angela Nwosu, lectured on “Poultry Production and Management.” She highlighted important areas such as choosing the right farm site, proper feeding, brooding methods, disease control, and correct drug use to reduce losses. Other trainers also gave practical lessons on hygiene, preventing diseases, and using vaccines.
Agricultural Consultant and member of the Joint Agricultural Intervention Programme, Engr. Stanley Anuforo, encouraged families and young people to go into poultry farming, calling it a good way to improve food supply, create jobs, and strengthen the economy.
Participants from Bende, Ugwunagbo, Umuahia North, and Aba North LGAs including Mr. Ikoro Celestine Onyebuchi, Nwogu Chinweoke, Ogbunachara Uche, and Mr. Chimaobi Lawrence Alozie thanked Governor Otti for approving the training and introducing new ideas in agriculture. They said the programme will increase meat production, create jobs, and support rural development.
Directors from Abia ADP and agricultural experts from within and outside the state also attended, showing strong support for Abia State’s renewed commitment to agriculture.
