INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO POST-HARVEST LOSSES: FORMER POULTRY ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ADVOCATES INDUSTRIAL GROWTH AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION FOR SMEs IN NIGERIA ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, an astute entrepreneur and former President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria, sheds light on a transformative opportunity for industrial development in the face of staggering post-harvest losses estimated at N3.5 trillion.

Dr. Oduntan emphasized the colossal potential for economic growth by addressing post-harvest losses, citing the example of mango purée as a global $1.5 billion industry.

The erudite entrepreneur proposed that tackling this issue not only opens avenues for industrial expansion but also contributes to eliminating wastage, citing the case of mangoes.

Discussing the funding challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, Dr. Oduntan underscored the importance of active support from financial institutions.

He pointed out the knowledge gap that often results in a disproportionate allocation of funds to foreign-owned companies, advocating for building local SMEs’ capacity to access funding.

Amo Farm, renowned for its significant contributions to agricultural development, stands out with its agro-innovation, particularly the Noiler Bird.

Launched in 2014 after a meticulous 12-year selective breeding process, the Noiler is a dual-purpose bird resembling native chickens but surpassing them in resistance to field diseases.

Notably, it produces four times more eggs and three times more poultry meat.

The impact of Amo Farm’s Noiler initiative extends to over 1.3 million rural households, with a strong focus on empowering women.

This initiative has laid a robust foundation poised for replication and expansion across Nigeria and the broader African continent, highlighting the pivotal role of innovative agro-solutions in fostering sustainable development.