Assessment of the Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Poultry Farmers in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria

This study assessed the challenges faced by small-scale poultry farmers in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria, with a focus on their socioeconomic characteristics, perceived benefits of poultry farming, constraints encountered, and potential solutions. A multistage random sampling technique was employed to select 50 respondents across 4 villages. The findings revealed that the average poultry farmer was 36 years old, predominantly (54.00%) female, the majority (58.00%) were married, and had a primary education. Most respondents had 11 years of experience in poultry farming. The majority (62.00%) belonged to cooperatives, and the majority (60.00%) had access to credit facilities. Poultry farming was largely (58.00%) commercial, with a mean household size of 7 persons. An average contact with an extension agent occurred 7 times per annum, and an average of 118 birds were stocked. An average monthly income of ₦147,848.00 was realized. A greater proportion (34.00%) of cockerels were the most commonly raised birds, and a greater proportion (30.00%) of free-range systems were used in the study area. Key benefits identified included improved diets, meat and egg production, livelihood support, manure generation, and income enhancement. However, serious constraints such as high feed and labour costs, fluctuating market prices, and pest and disease outbreaks were reported. Proposed solutions centred on stabilizing market prices and improving feed quality. The study concludes that poultry farming plays a vital role in rural livelihoods and food security. It recommends government intervention through feed subsidies, market regulation, and enhanced veterinary services to mitigate the impact of pests and diseases.