Experts Push Eggs for Child Nutrition, Seek Poultry Input Subsidies

Leading professionals in animal science and dietetics have strongly advised Nigerian families to consistently include eggs in their daily meals. They highlighted the significant nutritional value of eggs as an effective strategy against child malnutrition and growth stunting. Furthermore, these experts appealed to the government for financial support in the form of subsidies for poultry farming essentials, such as animal feed, aiming to lower production expenses and make eggs more widely available despite the current surge in food costs. These suggestions were put forward during a public awareness event held in Ilorin on Saturday. The programme was a joint effort by the Kwara State Branches of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria and the Poultry Association of Nigeria, commemorating the 30th World Egg Day.

During the event, Victoria Chimezie, a guest speaker from the Department of Animal Production at the University of Ilorin, explained that eggs contain vital nutrients crucial for children's overall growth and development. Chimezie, an animal geneticist, noted that the rich nutritional makeup of eggs could effectively combat deficiencies linked to poor physical development. She stated, “We see the problem of stunting growth among children. You see the hospital filled with children that are malnourished. They are filled with all the essential amino acids, the non-essential amino acids, and apart from that, there are vitamins, there are minerals present in the egg as well.”

Chimezie also challenged the common belief that egg consumption automatically leads to elevated blood cholesterol levels. She clarified that the presence of cholesterol in eggs does not necessarily translate to an increase in an individual's blood cholesterol. “The fact that cholesterol is present in eggs doesn’t translate to the fact that the cholesterol in your blood will increase by taking an egg,” she elaborated.

Samuel Akanbi, the Chairman of the ASAN, Kwara State Branch, also encouraged Nigerians to make eggs a regular part of their diet, emphasizing their contribution to cognitive development, energy provision, and general well-being. Akanbi specifically recommended egg consumption for students and adults. He advised, “We are encouraging the students to eat two eggs per day; adults can also eat up to that, but the recommendation is one egg per day for adults.” However, he cautioned consumers against eating spoiled eggs and urged poultry farmers to implement strict biosecurity measures and use antibiotics responsibly to mitigate disease risks.

Despite the nutritional advantages highlighted by the experts, the increasing cost of eggs and other food items remains a significant worry for many households. This has intensified calls for government intervention to alleviate production costs. Adedayo Gawati, the Vice-Chairman of PAN, Kwara State Branch, affirmed that eggs continue to be a relatively affordable source of animal protein, even with recent price hikes. “We are not saying eggs are affordable because the price has increased too, but what we are saying is that it is still the cheapest. Everything has gone up. We need to preach the value of eggs,” Gawati noted. He stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to help consumers better understand the nutritional significance of eggs and foster healthier eating habits. He added, “I think our problem with eggs is more of the value we place on the eggs themselves. It is the right time for us to place value on eggs, to let people know that it extends life. It makes you live healthier.”

Gawati also appealed for government assistance for poultry farmers, citing the escalating expenses of day-old chicks, animal feed, and other vital production inputs as major obstacles for the sector. He suggested that reducing the financial burden on farmers could boost production and ensure greater availability of eggs for consumers. Similarly, Mrs. Olufunke Bolaji, representing the Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria, urged both government and private entities to provide more support to poultry farmers. Bolaji advocated for subsidies on animal feed and other production inputs, arguing that lower operating costs for farmers would ultimately make eggs more accessible and affordable for families.

The programme, themed “The Mighty Egg: Protein that Powers and Protects,” brought together animal scientists, poultry farmers, students, and other stakeholders to delve into topics such as egg nutrition, healthy consumption practices, and the challenges facing poultry production. Students who participated in the event reported an improved understanding of the nutritional benefits of eggs. Blessing Adeogun from Glory Seed High School, Ilorin, shared that she learned eggs provide energy and help students maintain focus. Maryam Abdulakeem of Ansar-Ud-Deen Islamic Senior Secondary School, Ogbondoroko, also noted that the programme expanded her knowledge of eggs as a protein source. The event also featured goodwill messages from the Kwara State Ministry officials.