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Last Friday, we celebrated World Egg Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of eggs in our diets and the vital role of poultry farmers. In Nigeria, where poultry farming is a significant part of our agricultural landscape, this day holds special meaning.

Highlights from World Egg Day Celebrations

1. Community Workshops: Various communities hosted workshops aimed at educating farmers on best practices in poultry management, emphasizing sustainable farming techniques and biosecurity measures.
2. Egg Distribution Drives: Organizations and local governments organized distribution drives, providing free eggs to underserved communities, show casing the nutritional value of eggs as a vital source of protein.
3. Gifts and Fairs: Many regions held egg-decorating contests and fairs, celebrating creativity while promoting awareness of egg production and its benefits.

To all poultry farmers in Nigeria, we recognize the challenges you face, from rising feed costs to unpredictable market conditions. Your hard work and dedication are the backbone of our agricultural sector, and your resilience inspires us all. Please remember that you are not alone; support networks and resources are available to help you navigate these tough times.

As we are getting closer to the end of the year, we want to extend our gratitude to every poultry farmer in Ogun State, Nigeria. Your contributions feed families, support economies, and sustain communities. Keep pushing foward, your efforts are vital to our nation’s health and well-being. Together, we can overcome the challenges ahead and continue to celebrate the incredible value of eggs and the farmers who produce them. ‘

Thank you for your commitment and hard work!

Happy World Egg Day! Here’s to a brighter future for all poultry farmers in Nigeria!

Gumboro disease, also known as Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD), is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the immune system of young chickens, leading to significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Here’s an overview of the disease and how to prevent it:

Gumboro Disease Overview
Cause:

Gumboro disease is caused by the Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV), which targets the bursa of Fabricius, an important immune organ in birds. This results in immunosuppression, making the affected birds more susceptible to other infections.
Symptoms:

Depression and lethargy
Ruffled feathers
Diarrhea
Dehydration
Swollen or hemorrhagic bursa of Fabricius (upon necropsy)
Increased mortality rates in severe cases
Prevention Measures
Vaccination:

Routine Vaccination: Vaccinate chicks using live attenuated or inactivated vaccines according to a schedule recommended by a veterinarian. Vaccination typically starts at 1-3 weeks of age.
Maternal Antibodies: Ensure breeder hens are vaccinated to pass on protective antibodies to their chicks, providing early immunity.
Biosecurity:

Isolate New Birds: Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your flock to prevent the introduction of IBDV.
Limit Visitors: Restrict access to the poultry house to essential personnel only. Ensure visitors wear protective clothing and footwear.
Sanitation: Regularly clean and disinfect poultry houses, equipment, and transport vehicles to eliminate potential virus reservoirs.
Control Rodents and Wild Birds: Implement measures to prevent these animals from entering the poultry house, as they can carry and spread IBDV.
Environmental Management:

Litter Management: Maintain clean, dry litter to reduce the spread of the virus within the flock.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to reduce stress and improve overall bird health, making them less susceptible to infections.
Health Monitoring:

Regular Health Checks: Conduct regular health assessments of your flock to detect early signs of illness and implement timely interventions.
Surveillance Testing: Regularly test for the presence of IBDV in your flock, especially in areas where the disease is endemic.
Feed and Water Quality:

Clean Water Supply: Provide clean, uncontaminated water at all times. Consider adding disinfectants to the water if necessary.
Nutritious Feed: Ensure a balanced diet to maintain the health and immunity of your birds. Avoid feed contamination with pathogens.

Stay tune for more poultry disease, prevention and treatment.

Managing heat stress in poultry farms is crucial for maintaining the health, welfare, and productivity of the birds, especially during hot weather. Here are some effective strategies for managing heat stress in poultry farms:

Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in poultry houses to promote air circulation and reduce heat buildup. Utilize fans, air inlets, and exhaust systems to maintain optimal airflow throughout the facility.

Shade and Shelter: Provide shaded areas and shelter within the poultry house to allow birds to escape direct sunlight and seek relief from high temperatures. Install curtains or shades to block excessive sunlight while still allowing airflow.

Cooling Systems: Implement cooling systems such as evaporative cooling pads, misting systems, or foggers to lower the ambient temperature in the poultry house. These systems help reduce heat stress by providing a cooling effect for the birds.

Access to Clean Water: Ensure birds have continuous access to clean, fresh water at all times. Water intake increases during hot weather, so it’s essential to regularly check and maintain water supply systems to prevent dehydration and heat stress.

Dietary Management: Adjust the birds’ diet during hot weather to support heat stress management. Provide feed with lower protein content to reduce metabolic heat production and include electrolytes and vitamins in the diet to support hydration and overall health.

Reduce Stocking Density: Decrease stocking density during hot weather to reduce crowding and heat buildup within the poultry house. This allows birds to spread out and dissipate body heat more effectively.

Monitor Bird Behavior and Health: Regularly observe bird behavior and health indicators for signs of heat stress, such as panting, wing spreading, decreased feed intake, or increased mortality. Implement interventions promptly if heat stress symptoms are observed.

Manage Lighting: Adjust lighting schedules to minimize heat production from artificial lighting sources. Utilize natural light whenever possible and reduce lighting intensity during the hottest parts of the day to help keep temperatures lower inside the poultry house.

Provide Cooling Surfaces: Place cooling surfaces such as wetted pads or surfaces made of materials with high thermal conductivity (e.g., ceramic tiles) in the poultry house for birds to rest on and dissipate excess heat from their bodies.

Early Morning and Late Evening Activities: Schedule routine management activities such as feeding, watering, and flock monitoring during the cooler parts of the day to minimize stress on birds during peak heat hours.

By implementing these strategies, poultry farmers can effectively manage heat stress in their flocks, ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of their birds even during hot weather conditions. Regular monitoring, proactive measures, and proper management practices are key to mitigating the impact of heat stress on poultry farms.

Naira crises threaten Nigeria’s N12 trillion poultry sub-sector.

Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has again raised alarm that the N12 trillion poultry industry is at the bridge of collapse. The reason is not unconnected with the negative impact of the Naira redesign policy and high cost of raw materials, especially Maize and Soybean in the country that has stifled poultry production, leading to the closure of over 30 per cent of the farm enterprises and downsizing of about 50 per cent capacities of other farms across the country.

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PAN feared that if urgent steps are not taken soon, jobs of millions of Nigerians employed in the industry are threatened, which it claimed would negate the fight on food insecurity and growing the local economy.

Moreso, the body lamented that poultry farmers are failing to repay loans facilities from banks for the expansion of their farms with attendant toll on poultry farmers and investors that are thrown into confusion and out of business because of the current trends of things.

PAN in a statement signed by its National President, Sunday Ezeobiora and the Director-General, Onallo Akpa further lamented that the recent announcement by the CBN lifting of ban on importation of poultry products have further heightened the fears of the farmers and investors in the poultry industry thereby compounding the already collapsing production in the sector.

The association however, called on the government to maintain the import restriction policy on frozen poultry products and eggs, as any attempt to succumb to pressures from anywhere will spell disasters not only to the industry but also to the entire Nigerian economy.

They also called on the government to immediately work with the association towards making available needed raw materials like Maize and Soya to revive the collapsing farms.

As the most capitalised sub-sector of the agric industry, the association requested for an immediate funding programme to the sector so that the industry does not collapse and the country becoming a dumping ground for all sorts of poultry products from abroad with the attendant rise in unemployment due to loss of millions of jobs.

While stressing the need for a clear narrative by the government on the pronouncement by the CBN that restriction was been removed on forex allocation for poultry products and other items, PAN noted that the gains recorded by the poultry industry in the last 20 years couldn’t be eroded in a jiffy by market economy deregulation.

The body further called on the Joint Tax Board to look into the issue of multiple taxation on poultry production enterprises and products by the various States Internal Revenue Boards or Agencies with the possibility of abolishing all unnecessary taxes on food by either the revenue collection agencies or taskforce saying the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have great roles to play in this matter.

Click on this link to continue reading : https://guardian.ng/business-services/naira-crises-threaten-nigerias-n12-trillion-poultry-sub-sector/

In the highly competitive world of poultry farming and production, effective advertising plays a pivotal role in driving business growth and success. Here’s why investing in strategic advertising is essential for the advancement of your poultry business:

Enhanced Brand Visibility: Advertising elevates your brand visibility, making it more recognizable to potential customers and setting it apart from competitors. Increased visibility leads to greater awareness, which is key to expanding your customer base.

Targeted Marketing to Specific Segments: Through advertising, you can tailor your messaging to reach specific target audiences, whether it’s consumers looking for fresh eggs, premium-quality poultry meat, or sustainable farming practices. This targeted approach increases the likelihood of reaching those who are most likely to engage with your products.

Promotion of Product Differentiation: Advertising allows you to showcase the unique features and benefits of your poultry products, emphasizing factors such as organic feed, humane farming practices, or superior product quality. Highlighting these differentiators can help create a distinct and compelling brand image in the minds of consumers.

Increased Sales and Revenue: Strategic advertising initiatives can directly contribute to an increase in sales and overall revenue. By effectively communicating your value proposition and offerings, you can stimulate customer interest and drive purchase decisions, resulting in a positive impact on your bottom line.

Building Customer Trust and Loyalty: Consistent and informative advertising builds trust among consumers, showcasing your commitment to quality, transparency, and ethical practices. Building this trust fosters customer loyalty and encourages repeat business, creating a strong and sustainable customer base for your poultry products.

Educating the Public on Industry Best Practices: Advertising can also serve as a platform to educate the public about the importance of sustainable poultry farming, animal welfare, and the significance of consuming high-quality, ethically sourced poultry products. This not only benefits your business but also contributes to the overall advancement of the industry.

We at PAN-OGUN CHAPTER, we recognize the transformative power of strategic advertising in driving business growth and fostering meaningful connections with our valued customers. Join us in our mission to promote and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable poultry industry through effective and engaging advertising initiatives. For enquiries, send a message to any of your excos or Admin.

#PoultryFarming #SustainablePractices #QualityProducts #AdvertisingImpact

30 Reasons to eat Eggs

Eggs are good for you! Here’s why:

1. Eggs are Full of Vitamins and Minerals- Including vitamins B, C, D, E, K, and more.
2. Lower High Blood Pressure- The peptides present in eggs were shown to help reduce high blood pressure.
3. Great Source of Protein- Eggs are a great source of protein, one egg contains 6 grams of protein.
4. Omega 3’s- Eggs contain a high level of essential omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient and good for your heart.
5. Nine Essential Amino Acids- Eggs are known as the perfect food as they are the only one that contains all 9 of the essential amino acids.
6. Can Lower Your Cholesterol- Eggs do contain cholesterol, however as mentioned above, studies have shown that those who consume eggs regularly had a reduced LDL and an increase in HDL (the good cholesterol).
7. Boost Brain and Nerve Health-One egg contains 20% of the daily recommended intake of choline. Approximately 90% of Americans are choline deficient. Choline is essential for phospholipids used in all cell membranes. Adequate levels of choline are essential for brain and nerve health.
8. Contain Lutein and Zeaxanthin- These carotenoids are an essential component for eye health and defend against the damaging effects of free radicals.
9. Contain Tryptophan and Tyrosine- Two amino acids which have great antioxidant properties. Tryptophan is also important as it is converted to serotonin, a mood enhancer and converted into melatonin in the pineal gland, which benefits sleep.
10. Reduced Risk of Macular Degeneration- Eggs protect your eyes from developing age-related macular degeneration due to the lutein and zeaxanthin present.
11. Good Source of Vitamin B12- Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin for the process of converting homocysteine into safe molecules, such as glutathione, an important antioxidant.
12. Eggs Contain Calcium- One egg contains 50mg (5%) calcium. Although not a large source of calcium, an increased intake can reduce the risk of colon polyups and breast cancer.
13. Eggs Do NOT Cause Heart Disease- The choline in eggs is a crucial nutrient to help reduce the inflammation that leads to heart disease.
14. Reduce Birth Defects- Eggs contain folate, a nutrient which studies have shown to help prevent birth defects when consumed prenatally, one egg contains 44¼g (11%) of folate.
15. Good Source of Vitamin A- One egg contains 19% vitamin A which plays an important role in improving the immune system.
16. Promote Healthy Hair and Nails- The sulfur contained in eggs and the additional vitamins and minerals help promote hair and nail growth.
17. Reduce Oxidative Stress- Selenium, an essential macronutrient contained in eggs helps reduce oxidative stress.
18. Reduce Risk of Tumors- Eggs are an excellent source of selenium which has been associated with preventing cancer and in particular reducing tumors affecting the prostate.
19. Eggs Protect Your Eyesight- Not only do they prevent macular degeneration, but the antioxidants in eggs also have been reported to protect eyes from damage related to UV exposure.
20. Reduces Risk of Cataracts- The antioxidants have also been linked to reducing the risk of developing cataracts in old age.
21. Improve Immune System Functioning- The iron contained in eggs helps support a healthy immune system and normal red blood cell production.
22. Lose Weight- In a study from Louisiana State University, participants who ate eggs for breakfast instead of bagels, lost more weight and reported having more energy.
23. Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer- A recent study found that women who consumed high amounts of choline, an abundant nutrient in eggs, were 24% less likely to get breast cancer.
24. Source of Vitamin D- The majority of the population is deficient in vitamin D which is essential for boosting the immune system and preventing cancer. One egg contains 41 IU of the 600 IU recommend daily amount of vitamin D.
25. Reduces Inflammation- The choline in eggs aids in reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to increasing the risk of osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, cognitive decline, and type 2 diabetes.
26. Beneficial for Fetal Development- The choline present in eggs is essential for pregnant women as it is crucial for proper fetal brain development and preventing neural tube defects.
27. Reduce Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke- Several studies have shown that the nutrients in eggs help prevent blood clots which reduces the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
28. Improved Memory Function- The high amount of vitamins and nutrients in eggs, in particular choline, improves memory function and cognition.
29. Eggs Can Be Inexpensive- Many are able to get eggs for a great price when bought from local farmers. Another option is to raise your own chickens! Not only does this help save money and provide you with more nutritional value, but you could sell eggs to those in the area to cover the cost of caring for them.
30. Egg Variety- There are many ways to prepare eggs, whether you eat them raw, scramble them up in coconut oil, or boil them.
    You can also add great variety by adding in nutritious vegetables and herbs, such as to an omelet.

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Anthrax is a serious and potentially deadly disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It affects both humans and animals, including livestock like cattle, sheep, and goats. The disease is particularly hazardous to livestock, and its impact on the livestock industry can be significant. Here’s a comprehensive explanation of anthrax and its causes in the livestock industry based on the provided information:

1. Causes of Anthrax in Livestock: Anthrax in livestock is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. The bacteria form spores that can survive in the environment for extended periods, up to 50 years. These spores are highly resistant and can withstand extreme conditions, including heat, freezing, and disinfectants. When an animal is exposed to the spores through different methods, the bacteria can become active and cause the disease. The primary methods of anthrax exposure in livestock include:
   • Cutaneous Anthrax: When the bacteria enter the body through cuts or skin abrasions, causing skin lesions with blistering and a black center.
   • Ingestion Anthrax: Livestock can contract anthrax by ingesting spores present in contaminated plants or matter. Consuming contaminated feed, plants, or water can lead to an intestinal infection.
   • Inhalation Anthrax: Cattle grazing in pastures may inhale spores present in the ground or on plant matter. This method is less common in humans, usually occurring through handling infected carcasses.
2. Symptoms in Livestock: The symptoms of anthrax in livestock can vary depending on the method of exposure. Clinical signs in cattle may include:
   • Lack of eating
   • Mood swings
   • Swollen lymph nodes
   • High fever
   • Trembling or staggering
   • Convulsions
3. Prevention and Treatment: Prevention of anthrax in livestock is essential due to the high fatality rate once animals are infected. Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure against anthrax. Administering anthrax vaccines to livestock can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Early detection and prompt treatment with antibiotics are crucial for successful recovery in infected animals. However, treatment can be challenging, and in many cases, it may require culling of the infected herd to prevent further spread.
4. Global Prevalence of Anthrax in Livestock: Anthrax is a concern worldwide, affecting both livestock and wildlife. A meta-analysis estimated the global prevalence of anthrax in livestock to be approximately 28% from 2452 samples, with Africa having the highest prevalence (29%) and North America the lowest (21%). Anthrax is relatively rare in developed countries, but it remains a concern due to its potential use in bioterrorism attacks.

Given the severity of anthrax in livestock and its potential impact on both animal health and the livestock industry, implementing preventive measures, such as vaccination, proper disposal of infected carcasses, and monitoring high-risk regions, is crucial for disease control and economic protection for farmers and the livestock industry as a whole.