Poultry farming is one of the most profitable agricultural businesses in Nigeria, providing eggs, meat, and other products for the growing population. Whether you are a graduate, non-graduate, or entrepreneur, poultry farming offers a steady income and long-term growth.

What Is Poultry Farming?

Poultry farming involves raising domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and quails for eggs, meat, or breeding purposes. In Nigeria, broilers and layers are the most common types:

  • Broilers: Raised for meat

  • Layers: Raised for egg production

Poultry farming can be small-scale (backyard) or large-scale (commercial farms).

Why Poultry Farming Is Lucrative in Nigeria

  • High demand: Eggs and chicken meat are staples in Nigerian diets

  • Fast returns: Broilers can be ready in 6–8 weeks

  • Scalable: Start small and expand

  • Government support: Agricultural incentives and loans available

  • Job creation: Employs farmhands, marketers, and transporters

Skills Needed for Poultry Farming

  • Basic knowledge of bird biology and health

  • Feeding and nutrition management

  • Disease prevention and vaccination

  • Record keeping and cost management

  • Marketing and sales skills

Even if you don’t have formal education in agriculture, training programs and online courses can prepare you.

Steps to Start Poultry Farming in Nigeria

  1. Decide your poultry type – layers, broilers, or breeders

  2. Prepare your farm – choose location, construct housing

  3. Source healthy chicks – reputable hatcheries

  4. Feed and manage the birds – provide clean water and proper feed

  5. Vaccinate and monitor health – prevent common diseases

  6. Market your products – direct to consumers, restaurants, supermarkets

  7. Keep records – monitor growth, expenses, and profits

Average Income from Poultry Farming in Nigeria

Earnings vary depending on scale, management, and demand:

  • Small-scale broiler farm (100 birds): ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 per cycle

  • Medium-scale farm (1,000 birds): ₦500,000 – ₦1,000,000 per cycle

  • Large commercial farm (5,000+ birds): ₦5,000,000+ per cycle

Layers provide a more steady monthly income through egg sales.

Challenges in Poultry Farming

  • Disease outbreaks (Newcastle, Avian Influenza)

  • Fluctuating feed costs

  • Power and water supply issues

  • Market competition

Proper planning, vaccination, and partnerships with feed suppliers help mitigate these challenges.

Official Links & Resources for Poultry Farmers in Nigeria

Here are trusted platforms to learn, get support, and access government programs:

1. Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development (FMARD)

Provides training, loans, and agricultural resources for poultry farmers.
🔗 https://fmard.gov.ng

2. Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS)

Provides bird import/export regulations and certifications.
🔗 https://naqs.gov.ng

3. Poultry Hatcheries & Suppliers

4. Online Agricultural Platforms

Tips for Success in Poultry Farming

  • Start small and scale gradually

  • Network with other farmers and suppliers

  • Keep detailed records of costs and sales

  • Maintain hygiene to prevent diseases

  • Diversify products: eggs, meat, or chicks

Final Thoughts

Poultry farming is one of the most accessible and profitable agribusinesses in Nigeria, offering high returns and sustainable income. With proper planning, skills, and market knowledge, you can turn poultry farming into a full-time business or side income.

By admin1

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *