The House of Representatives has opened an investigation into the delayed compensation owed to Nigerian poultry farmers affected by avian influenza (bird flu), with nearly ₦498.7 million still unpaid to 307 verified farmers between 2021 and 2023.

The revelation came during a public hearing on six livestock-related bills at the National Assembly, where lawmakers emphasized the need to address compensation delays and strengthen the country’s livestock sector under the National Livestock Transformation Plan.

Hon. Wale Raji, Chairman of the House Committee on Livestock Development, stated that ₦3.16 billion has already been disbursed to 1,055 farmers from earlier outbreaks. However, the latest delays have been attributed to limited funding and the absence of a dedicated Animal Diseases Emergency Fund since 2021.

A recent outbreak in Wukari, Taraba State, led to the culling of 2,050 birds, yet affected farmers have yet to receive their due compensation. The current framework, revised in 2022, mandates that the Federal Government covers 50% of losses, state governments 25%, and farmers themselves 25%. Only small-scale farmers with flocks of 3,000 birds or fewer are eligible, unless commercial farms hold insurance.

In addition to addressing compensation issues, the House is considering the creation of a Federal College of Animal Husbandry in Ka’oje, Kebbi State, aimed at boosting research, training, and innovation in animal production.

The investigation underscores growing concern among lawmakers over slow compensation processes and highlights the urgent need for an emergency fund to safeguard farmers against future outbreaks. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.