By Juliet Umeh

The BATN Foundation, BATNF, in partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Government and Eco-Lead Imperial Engineering and Global Services Ltd., has distributed 2,000 five-week-old Noiler chickens to 100 smallholder poultry farmers in Akwa Ibom State.

Launched on December 15, 2024, at the Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Project Premises, AKADEP premises, the initiative aims to empower rural farmers and strengthen food security in the region.

The project which targets the vulnerable provided each participating farmer with 20 Noiler birds, a 25kg bag of poultry feed, and 150g of multivitamin sachets.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, who was represented by the Honorable Commissioner Mr. Effiong Offor, announced transportation support of N5000 for each beneficiary.
She said: “This initiative aligns perfectly with the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno, which aims to boost agricultural production in Akwa Ibom State.”

Beneficiaries were selected through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria, PAN, in Akwa Ibom State, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, NVMA, ensuring that support reached those most in need.

General Manager of the BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya, expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “We are proud to support this project, which addresses immediate food security needs while empowering local farmers with the tools and resources necessary for sustainable livelihoods.
“This initiative represents a significant step in fostering economic empowerment among smallholder farmers across the country. It also reflects our commitment to economic development and enhancing the lives of individuals in the communities we serve.”

Odusanya further disclosed that the main objectives of this poultry project included enhancing food security and nutrition by providing a sustainable protein source for local communities, equipping women with practical skills for poultry production, and fostering gender equality and social inclusion.

He added that the BATN Foundation remains committed to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving the livelihoods of rural communities across Nigeria.

Director of Veterinary Services in Akwa Ibom State, Teddy Essien, commended the BATN Foundation for the programme, noting its potential to promote rural agriculture and improve local poultry species. He encouraged beneficiaries to prioritize the health and productivity of the birds entrusted to them.

On his part, Director of Livestock and Husbandry, Mr. Namokwo Orok, emphasized that the project aligns with the state government’s agricultural revolution agenda, stating, “This partnership is timely and critical for the advancement of agricultural practices in our communities.”