Poultry farmers in Zamfara State are struggling with high production costs and low patronage, largely due to ongoing economic hardships.
According to Mallam Ibrahim Usman, a key issue is the high cost of essential feed ingredients like maize and soybeans. Despite being in the rainy season, maize prices remain elevated, and the moisture content of new maize affects production quality.
Usman suggested that providing low-interest loans and support for raw materials could help revitalize the industry.
Another farmer, Mustapha Liman, noted that the suspension of the State government’s school feeding program, which previously provided a steady market for poultry products, has further hurt the industry.
Yusuf Abdulrahaman, meanwhile, has managed to stay afloat by supplying roasted chicken dealers. The combined impact of these issues has led to rising egg prices and the closure of some poultry businesses.