"Insurance Payouts Boost Poultry Farmers' Livelihoods"

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

Kaduna, June 13, 2025 – Pullus Africa, in collaboration with Heifer International Nigeria and Leadway Assurance, has held an insurance payout for poultry farmers benefiting from the Pullus Innovative Financing (PIF) program. The event, which was held in Kaduna state, highlighted the transformative power of agricultural insurance, inclusive financing, and technology-driven solutions in the poultry sector.

According to Mrs. Opeoluwa Fayomi, Chief Executive Officer of Pullus Africa, the program has trained over 23,000 farmers and financed 166 poultry farmers across Kaduna, Nasarawa, and parts of Abuja. "When we started, the vision was to create an integrated support system that addresses the real challenges poultry farmers face," Fayomi said. "We have disbursed ₦76 million in financing to farmers, primarily for poultry feed, and supported over 166 farmers, producing nearly 30,000 birds in the latest cycle."

Fayomi added that the program has recorded a 92% claim success rate, with ₦4 million in insurance payouts distributed to 26 out of 28 eligible farmers. "Significant improvements including a 27% increase in average bird weight, directly enhancing profitability for farmers," she noted.

Mrs. Onyekachi Ayevbuomwan, Program Lead, Market Systems and Business Development of Heifer International Nigeria, emphasized the significance of partnerships in achieving these results. "Heifer’s mission is to end hunger and poverty sustainably," Ayevbuomwan said. "We see poultry farming as central to this mission, providing food security, employment, and economic empowerment, especially for women and youth."

Dr. Ese, representing Leadway Assurance, explained the role of insurance in protecting smallholder investments. "Pullus farmers receive priority," Dr. Ese assured attendees, noting Leadway’s proactive approach in handling claims swiftly.

Dr. Zakariah Pantaki, Director of Veterinary Services at the Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture, offered strong governmental endorsement, recognizing the program's alignment with the state's agricultural agenda.

"Agriculture should not be a gamble," Pantaki stressed. "This program turns farming into a guaranteed path to prosperity. It reflects the vision of Kaduna State’s government, under Governor Uba Sani, to support initiatives that empower farmers and transform agriculture into a resilient economic sector."

Some beneficiaries shared compelling stories of personal and economic recovery made possible through the insurance payouts. Pastor Bitrus Nasa recounted losing 90 birds in an uninsured cycle, nearly ending his poultry business. However, through the PIF scheme, he successfully restarted production and recently received insurance compensation. "This program has given me peace of mind. When I received the payout, I knew my story had changed. I can farm confidently now," Nasa remarked, drawing applause from fellow farmers and stakeholders.