Investing in turkey farming in Nigeria can be profitable, as it is a lucrative venture due to increasing demand for poultry products and the relatively low competition in the sector.
It is imperative to note that, turkey farming for profitability requires careful planning, adequate capital, and proper management.
Speaking with a Lagos-based poultry farmer, Muhammed Gana, he explained what it takes to make a success out of the poultry business.
He stated that, “there are key requirements, financial costs, and equipment needed to start and run a successful turkey farming business in Nigeria which should start with the initial planning and research.”
He, however, highlighted that, the understanding of the demand for turkey meat and eggs should be well-researched for a target market.
Muhammed buttressed that, there should exist a detailed business plan covering costs, revenue projections, and operational strategies. He noted that the choice of a suitable site with good access to water, electricity, and transportation is of importance.
He said: “The financial cost of starting a turkey farm depends on the scale of operation which can be from a small to medium-scale farm and then the land to use which depends on the location as rural areas are cheaper.
“The estimated cost could be from N500,000 to N2 million with consideration given to the housing (Turkey Pen Construction), that is well-ventilated and secured which could range from N200,000 to N500,000 (for a small-scale farm). However, to kick-start the poultry business, the farmer needs to get the current rate of turkey poults (baby turkeys), to factor in how many can be purchased. “
It is gathered that, the cost per poult ranges from N1,500 – N3,000, and for 100 poults: N150,000 – N300,000.
“Turkeys consume a lot of feed, especially during the growing phase. So it’s advisable to buy the feed (grower for poults) at the early stage for months and then later introduce finisher feeds to increase their growth.
“And to get this we can put this at one turkey cost between N5,000 – N7,000 (for 6 months), while for 100 turkeys can be estimated between N500,000 -N700,000. Then consider vaccines and medications which are essential to prevent diseases as the estimated cost can be between 30,000 – N50,000 or more,” Gana said.
He assured prospective farmers that a huge profit could be made from the sale of the turkey as the prices range from N50,000 to N100,000 depending on the size, market demands and location at times.
Meanwhile, another turkey farmer, Mr Dennis Ochoche remarked that, the success of poultry farm depends on the day-to-day care (Workers) on the ground during the farm operations. “Estimated monthly labour cost would be: N30,000 – N50,000 per worker while other miscellaneous like water supply, electricity, and other overheads should be factored in the expenses,” he said.
He added that, equipment and tools like drinkers and feeders could cost between N20,000 and N50,000 with brooders for keeping poults warm between (N30,000 – N100,000).
Moreover, fencing materials are needed to secure the farm which is (alongside storage facilities and an optional incubator.
He stated, “A lot of revenue can be generated from the sale of turkey meat and a mature turkey can sell for N50,000 and beyond.
“ And to generate more funds Turkey eggs are also in demand and can be sold for N700 – N1,000 per egg added with the breeding stocks like poults or adult turkeys for breeding can also generate income,
“With an estimated total startup cost for a small-scale farm with 100 turkeys, I will say a low estimate would be about N1,000,000 to N1,500,000 with a high estimate within the 2,500,000 to N3,500,000 range”
Ochoche added that, “The best advice to give anyone interested in the poultry business is to start small and scale up as you gain experience. And also, partner with experienced farmers or veterinarians who will guide the farmer.
“The farmer should focus on proper feeding and disease prevention and also, explore multiple revenue streams (meat, eggs, breeding).
“This business if well managed with an emphasis on carefully managing costs and ensuring proper care for the turkeys, the poultry farmer can achieve huge profitability within 6-12 months, and depending on the size it’s a business that will yield in millions. “
