The Pig Farmers Association of Nigeria (PIFAN) has called on governments at all levels to prioritise pig farming through access to land, finance and other critical resources, saying the sector could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy and employment generation if properly supported.
Prof. Akin Adesehinwa, President of PIFAN, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday that pig farmers have long been overlooked compared with other livestock subsectors, such as cattle and poultry.
He urged both policymakers and the public to view pig production not just as a source of pork but as a robust economic engine capable of transforming rural livelihoods and boosting national GDP.
“All tiers of government should consider pig farmers because we rely on the same feed sources as poultry and herders, such as maize, soybean, groundnut cake and cottonseed,” he said.
“Pig farming is not merely about consumption; it is an integral part of the livestock economy.”
Adesehinwa emphasised that Nigeria remains Africa’s largest producer of pigs despite limited government interventions.
With sufficient support, he stated that the subsector could expand exports, increase employment, empower youth and women, and generate foreign exchange.
Pig farming also offers a diversified value chain, including products such as cosmetics, brushes, leather for shoes, bags and belts.
Waste from pig production, he added, can also be repurposed as organic fertiliser or converted into biogas, further strengthening its economic and environmental value.
“Many of our members have built sustainable livelihoods through pig farming, trained their children to enviable standards, and invested in assets, despite not being formally employed,” Adesehinwa said, highlighting the transformative potential of the industry.
PIFAN’s appeal highlightsthe need for clear policies, financial support, and land allocation to enable pig farmers to fully harness the subsector’s potential, thereby positioning Nigeria’s pig industry as a key driver of food security, rural prosperity, and national growth.
Source: NAN
