The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a more productive livestock sector, with a renewed focus on poultry farming and the promotion of egg consumption as a means of improving nutrition and strengthening food security.
The commitment was reiterated during the World Egg Day celebration organised by the Edo State Ministry of Livestock Development in collaboration with the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) at the Ministry’s Training Hall. The event was held under the theme, “Protein That Powers and Protects.”
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Anelu Wilson, said the state government’s SHINE Agenda prioritises food security for all.
He described eggs as an affordable and nutritious source of protein that contributes to healthy living, noting that the annual celebration provides an opportunity to highlight their nutritional benefits and encourage greater consumption.
According to him, eggs are essential for human growth, brain development and overall well-being, while poultry farmers remain critical players in the livestock value chain and key contributors to food security in the state.
The commissioner further noted that poultry farming plays a significant role in economic transformation, wealth creation and rural development, stressing the importance of supporting farmers and other stakeholders in the sector.
Earlier, the Chairman of PAN in Edo State, Mr. Jolly Idelegbagbon, called on members of the public to disregard misconceptions surrounding egg consumption, particularly claims that eggs are inherently unhealthy.
He said World Egg Day offers an opportunity to educate the public on the importance of including eggs in their daily diets, while encouraging prospective entrepreneurs to explore poultry farming, which he described as a potentially profitable business venture.
In a lecture titled “Protein That Powers and Protects,” the immediate past PAN Chairman, Mr. Imasuen Kingsley, traced the history of World Egg Day to a conference held in Geneva in 1986.
He encouraged participants to develop the habit of eating eggs regularly, explaining that protein is essential for cell function, body growth and muscle development.
Kingsley also highlighted the nutritional composition of eggs, noting that they contain vitamins A, D, E and B-complex, alongside essential minerals and amino acids that support the body’s functions.
He added that eggs can contribute to the prevention of protein-energy malnutrition, including conditions such as kwashiorkor and marasmus, when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
The lecturer further addressed concerns about the relationship between egg consumption and cholesterol, noting that research has helped improve scientific understanding of the nutritional effects of eggs.
The celebration featured the presentation of eggs to the commissioner, the permanent secretary, ministry staff and other stakeholders in attendance. An interactive quiz session was also held as part of activities designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the nutritional benefits of eggs and the importance of poultry farming.
