In commemoration of year 2025 World Egg Day, the Edo State Government through the Office of the Edo State First Lady, has empowered thirty (30) women in livestock farming with the provision of layer’s mash during an event organized by the Animal Science Association of Nigeria in collaboration with the Poultry Association of Nigeria, which held at the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Agricultural Hub in Oko Ogba, Benin.
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, while appreciating the theme, “From Lab to Farm: Forging a Stronger Handshake between Animal Science Academia and Public Service for a Thriving Livestock Sector”, reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to empowering women in agriculture. She disclosed the Governor’s plan to establish Edo State as Nigeria’s food hub with initiatives poised to transform the Agricultural Sector.
Mrs. Anani also appreciated the Egg farmers, producers and distributors, reiterating the State Government’s commitment to enhancing nutrition, ensuring food security and fostering sustainable agriculture in Edo State, with a particular emphasis on women’s empowerment. In her words, “I appreciate the hard work of Egg farmers, producers and distributors, who ensure that eggs are readily available to communities worldwide. This dedication and hard work is crucial in ensuring that we have access to this nutritional food source. In Edo State, we are committed to promoting nutrition and food security through initiatives and support sustainable agriculture, alongside the empowerment of women”.
According to Mrs. Anani, “Eggs are a gift from nature, providing high quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals. They are a versatile and affordable food source that can be enjoyed in various ways. Making them a staple in our culture and around the world. As we celebrate World Egg Day, let us acknowledge the significant role eggs play in promoting nutrition, food security and sustainable agriculture”.
Mrs. Anani appreciated partners and stakeholders, emphasizing the impact of their contributions on egg production and women’s empowerment. She called for collaboration to promote egg consumption, support local farmers and build a healthier and more agriculturally secure future.
The Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Sunday Osayande, who was represented by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Thomas Haruna, disclosed that the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo had commended the unwavering dedication of Poultry Farmers whose perseverance and resilience ensure that the vital commodity remains available to Edo people despite the significant challenges they face.
According to him, “eggs are nature’s super food packed with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are critical for human health at every stage of life, from children to the elderly”.
On his part, the Director of Animal Husbandry, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, appreciated stakeholders, emphasizing on the nutritional value of eggs, while encouraging stakeholders to explore egg production beyond consumption.
The Provost, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Iguoriakhi, Mr. Andrew Omosede who highlighted the benefits of eggs, stressed on the versatility of eggs and their role in feeding families, recommending egg as part of daily meals.
Highpoint of the event was the distribution of items to beneficiaries and the presentation of an award to Mrs. Anani in recognition of her exceptional insight and inspiring contributions to agriculture in the State.
The initiative highlights the significance of poultry farming in boosting food security, promoting economic empowerment among women and enhancing nutrition through egg consumption.
Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
7th Right: the Coordinator, Office of Edo First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, with Stakeholders including women in Agriculture and beneficiaries of the agricultural empowerment items during an event organized to commemorate World Egg Day, held at the Agricultural Development Programme, ADP, Oko Ogba, Airport Road Benin City.
