WattAgNet.com, writing about the future of poultry, once wrote that by 2050, we will need to consider that routine work may be replaced by robotics or automation. There will most likely be total supply chain transparency with precision farming, total traceability and on-farm informatics. In the same vein, many years ago, Philip Wilkinson expressed his optimism about the future of poultry farming. He said that poultry, undoubtedly is going to be the leading meat protein to help feed an additional three billion people by 2050.Although his projection may not have meant so much to his listeners, Wilkinson’s assumption was borne out of his understanding of the discovery of animal product as the best bet for adequate protein intake. The place of the poultry industry in providing the consumers bugging demand question has become highly indispensible that it is no longer out of place to foresee a high possibility of farm employees with doctorate degrees, hydroponics and mini-power stations becoming more common on poultry operations.
Protein, the second most abundant compound found in human body, plays many critical roles in keeping the body alive and healthy. It is not unlikely that very soon, dietary health foods may be prescribed as part of a disease prevention programme. From the contraction of the muscles which allows for body movement, to the contraction of specialised muscle that controls organ functions such as the heart, digestive movements and elimination of unwanted elements in the body, the place of protein in human body is said to be highly indispensible. Luckily, the free range organic poultry, ducks, turkeys and eggs from healthy chickens are usually handy for this purpose. No doubt, plant foods such as grains, nuts, beans and vegetables can supply the body with proteins, it is but a limited array of amino acids, animal product such as chicken, fish, beef, venison, duck, turkey and pork contain virtually all the essential amino acids needed to keep the body fit and healthy. This makes the poultry business a handy bridge between the need of a people and the availability of a solution to such need.
Wilkinson thus sees the poultry farmer as one in a position to answer the consumers’ bugging question of “what should we eat?” Of course, like the words of the President of the Barbados Egg and Poultry Producers Association (BEPPA), Wendell Clarke, in 2009, “local poultry producers are actually more than ready and willing to satisfy the needs of the local market”, but the question is, how enabling and encouraging is the economic climate under which the poultry farmer operates? No doubt, knowing the gap between the protein need or demand of the society and its existing available supply will aid in assessing the role of poultry farming towards the health and the wealth of the nation. It is in the realisation of the above fact, that the repositioning of the poultry industry in Rivers State becomes imperative. No matter how the poultry farmer struggles with continued industry volatility, even in the face of generally favourable environment, the need for flexibility and market orientation can never be overemphasised. This is to ensure that tasty, safe and enticing products grown in a manner consistent with consumers expectations, are delivered.
Therefore, if the poultry business be considered a handy bridge between the need of a people and the supply of the products, then the onus lies first on the industry to acquire a new mindset that will favour improvement in productivity. For us here in Rivers State, a state peculiar for  its burgeoning population and increasing demand for poultry products, we are found  at crossroads in the realm of poultry farming. While the potential for economic growth and food security is vast, numerous challenges plague the industry, necessitating urgent attention and strategic intervention. One of the primary issues confronting poultry farmers in Rivers State is the inconsistency in the supply chain. Fluctuating prices of feed, coupled with disruptions in the distribution network, often result in financial instability for farmers. Addressing this requires a comprehensive assessment of the supply chain and collaborative efforts between farmers and stakeholders to establish stability. Poultry farming faces constant threats from disease outbreaks. Avian influenza and other contagious diseases pose significant risks, leading to the loss of poultry stocks and economic setbacks for farmers.
There is an urgent need for the government to bolster disease control measures and provide support for farmers in the event of an outbreak. The escalating costs of inputs such as feed, vaccines, and energy are major hurdles for poultry businesses in Rivers State. A strategic approach to reducing these costs through subsidies, grants, or cooperative initiatives is crucial to sustaining the industry. There is no gainsaying that outdated and inadequate infrastructure hampers the efficiency of poultry farming. The absence of modern facilities for processing and storage limits the sector’s growth potential. Thus, government’s  intervention is imperative to invest in and upgrade infrastructure to meet global standards. Talking of  access to finance, this remains a significant challenge for small and medium-scale poultry farmers. Establishing dedicated financial schemes, low-interest loans, or grants tailored for the poultry sector would empower farmers to expand their operations and enhance productivity.
Poultry farmers often struggle with accessing markets and efficient distribution channels. Government support in creating market linkages, improving transportation infrastructure, and streamlining distribution networks will fortify the poultry value chain. The lack of updated knowledge and skills among farmers exacerbates challenges. Comprehensive training programmes and capacity-building initiatives can empower farmers with the necessary tools to adopt modern and sustainable practices. Environmental concerns, including waste management and water pollution, require immediate attention. Implementing eco-friendly practices and enforcing regulations to ensure sustainable farming methods is paramount for the long-term viability of poultry farming. Promoting local poultry breeds resilient to the region’s conditions can contribute to sustainable farming. Government incentives and awareness campaigns can encourage farmers to invest in indigenous breeds, fostering biodiversity and adaptability.
In all of these, creating awareness among consumers about the challenges faced by poultry farmers in Rivers State is essential. Public support and conscientious consumption can drive demand for locally produced poultry products, creating a more sustainable market. The dilemma faced by poultry farmers in Rivers State requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, private sector, and community collaboration. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can pave the way for a thriving and resilient poultry industry that contributes significantly to the state’s economic development and food security.

Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi