Gov’t Policies Made 2023 Challenging For Poultry Business — PAN

The Chairman of SUNCHI Integrated Farms Ltd and National President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Sunday Ezeobiora, has voiced concerns over the adverse effects of certain government policies and programs on the poultry industry during the year 2023.

Ezeobiora made this revelation during the 10th-anniversary celebration of SUNCHI Integrated Farms Ltd in Enugu, Enugu State.

Ezeobiora acknowledged that 2023 had been particularly challenging for poultry farmers in Nigeria, including those operating under the umbrella of SUNCHI farms.

He stressed that policies such as the naira redesign, fuel subsidy removal, and currency devaluation significantly impacted their operations, aligning with the effects experienced by numerous businesses across Nigeria.

“In all the years we have been in operation, 2023 has been hugely remarkable as it is the year three major government policies had a significant impact on our operations,” he said. “The naira redesign policy, fuel subsidy removal, and devaluation of the currency affected our business just like every business in Nigeria.”

The occasion served as a platform to gather stakeholders and express gratitude to them for their contributions to the growth of the company.

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SUNCHI Integrated Farms Ltd commenced construction in 2009 and officially began operations in 2013 as a breeder farm, hatchery, and small-scale feed mill for internal consumption. Over time, the company expanded its operations, enhancing the feed mill’s capacity and increasing bird production.

Ezeobiora highlighted the company’s progress, noting expansions in hatchery capacity, the installation of automated feed mills, and the establishment of an oil refinery. These developments aimed to match the volume of soybeans processed for feed and add value to soybean by-products.

“Our oil refinery was also established in 2016 with a capacity to refine 4 tons per day,” he said. “With our increased feed production; we are also increasing our oil refinery to match the volume of soya beans we crush for feed.’’

Furthermore, SUNCHI ventured into frozen chicken production as an extension of its value chain, marking a strategic move to diversify and expand its offerings.

During the celebration, long-service awards were presented to dedicated workers and pioneers of the company, a significant highlight of the event that acknowledged their commitment and hard work.

Various members of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, including Mr. Kanayo Nwankwo and Mr. Olisa Onu, lauded Ezeobiora’s integrity, humility, and commitment to navigating the challenges within the poultry industry in Nigeria, particularly in the South East region.

The celebration recognized not only the company’s growth but also the perseverance and dedication of its workforce, stressing the importance of their contributions to the success and sustainability of SUNCHI Integrated Farms Ltd.