By Fatima Muraina
Chairman of the Ondo State Snail Farmers Association (OSSAFA), Olawole Lawal, has called for stronger institutional backing and structured investment in snail farming, describing the sector as an underutilised goldmine capable of transforming livelihoods across the state and beyond.
Lawal, who also serves as a snail versatility promoter (SVE), made the remarks during an interview with Agribusiness, where he highlighted the economic, nutritional and industrial value of snail production.
According to him, snail farming extends beyond food consumption into the health, construction, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
“We believe this engagement will strengthen relationships that have been sustained and help snail farming families who have benefited from snail business entrepreneurship to grow even further,” Lawal said.
Citing projections that the global snail market could reach $4.55 billion by 2033, Lawal described the statistics as “inspiring” for stakeholders in the industry.
He credited Dr. Victor Iyama, Board of Trustees Chairman of the Federation of Agricultural Commodity Associations of Nigeria (FACAN), for bringing the figures to public attention.