The President, Worlds Poultry Science Association, Nigeria Branch, (WPSA-NB) Professor Okanlawon Onagbesan addressing participants at the 4th Nigeria International Poultry Summit. Seated on the high table from right are the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Nnaemeka Nzekwe; the rep. of the VC, the DVC (A), Prof. Toyin Arowolo and Prof. (Mrs.) Funmilayo Adebambo.
The President, Worlds Poultry Science Association, Nigeria Branch, (WPSA-NB) Professor Okanlawon Onagbesan has advocated for the advancement in Scientific knowledge and promotion of continued development of the various aspects of poultry production as panacea to food insecurity and sustainability challenge being experienced in the world.
Speaking at the 4th Nigeria International Poultry Summit (NIPS) held at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Onagbesan lamented that by International Standard, Protein intake by Nigerians is low, attributing the inbalance to inavailability and affordability of sources of protein.
According to him, the easiest and quickest way to bridge the inavailability gap is through the intake of poultry meat and eggs while adding that the adoption of innovative technologies and sustainability of production will help bridge the affordability gap.
The WPSA-NB President noted that the theme of the 4th NIPS, “Food Security Through Innovative Technology in Poultry Production”, is timely as it coincides with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government, of which the Livestock sector of Agriculture is a sub committee.
“Food Security and Sustainability has become a common phrase in government pronouncements. These cannot be achieved without scientific research. This requires adequate funding and cooperation with industry. Sustainability can only be ascertained through research. Then food security can be guaranteed”.
Professor Onagbesan assured that the Summit will address issues of food security as it relates to the sustainability of meat and egg production, to enhance protein intake of the Nigerian populace.