LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT REFUNDS 145 FORMER SUBSCRIBERS OF EGAN HOUSING ESTATE
admin By Ganiyat Mumuni
The Feed Industry Practitioners Association of Nigeria (FIPAN) has restated its commitment to expanding and ensuring balanced nutrition in the country.
This was the focus at the inauguration of newly elected executives of the association.
Outgoing President Raymond Isiadinso noted that the association serves as an advisory body to the government to proffer solutions to issues regarding feed, animal and livestock nutrition provisions.
He said: “Previously, there wasn’t much awareness among policymakers about the critical importance of maize in the livestock industry. However, since we came on board, we have raised this awareness, which has led to increased interest and knowledge surrounding our industry today.
“I believe the incoming executive will work with the government to develop policies that influence funding and the administration of the fund, by ensuring interest rates on funds are conducive to agricultural growth, which is similarly done in Western countries where agricultural funds are not available at commercial interest rates.”
The newly-elected FIPAN National President, Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, acknowledged the primary function of feeds as helping to facilitate meat production. He noted that the country is underperforming in addressing protein malnutrition, a situation that should be tracked.
Oduntan, while highlighting plans of the incoming administration for members, said the body would work with the government to achieve its organisational goals.
He said: “We plan to work closely with the government to improve feed access for cattle, which will boost the production of beef and milk, as well as explore the export potential for sheep and goats to markets like Saudi Arabia and others. These goals can only be realised if the feed industry partners with the government to enhance productivity.
“FIPAN’s current leadership is committed to expanding beyond our traditional focus on poultry feed, to include more substantial support for the ruminant and swine sectors. Ruminants such as cattle, goats, and sheep represent a significant portion of our livestock population, yet the availability of quality feed for these animals remain insufficient. Similarly, the swine sector, though smaller in scale, has immense potential for growth especially in meeting both local and export demand.
“We are resolved to collaborate with local stakeholders, including farmers, feed producers, financial institutions and government agencies to create an enabling environment for the growth of the industry. We seek to build international partnerships that can provide access to new technologies, innovations and best practices that will allow us improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance quality of feed produced in Nigeria.
Other newly-elected executives are Chief Austine Bamgbayo (Vice president); Pastor Godwin Egbeben (Secretary); Mrs. Olukorede Adebanjo (Treasurer); Prince Adekunle Adenuga (Financial Secretary); Mrs. Aderonke Titiloye (Public Relations Officer), among others.
