Kano poultry farmers seek subsidised feed as input costs rise

NIGERIA – Poultry farmers in Kano State have urged the government to subsidise animal feed, medication, and other essential inputs as rising production costs squeeze their businesses.

The farmers made the appeal in separate interviews with journalists in Kano on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, citing higher feed prices and the increasing cost of day-old chicks as major challenges affecting farm operations.

Aminu Nabegu, one of the farmers, said several commercial feed brands had raised prices, increasing the cost of feeding birds to market size.

A bag of Ultima Plus feed, which previously sold for N20,000 (US$13.80), now costs N23,000 (US$15.90), while Ultima feed has risen from N18,000 (US$12.40) to N21,000 (US$14.50).

Chikun feed increased from N16,500 (US$11.40) to N18,000 (US$12.40), while Hybrid feed rose from N12,000 (US$8.30) to N14,200 (US$9.80).

Nabegu added that day-old chicks, previously priced between N500 (US$0.35) and N700 (US$0.48), now cost about N2,000 (US$1.38), raising the capital needed to start a poultry operation.

Feed costs strain farm budgets

Nabegu estimated that raising 100 day-old chicks to market size could require 13 to 14 bags of feed, depending on feeding practices and farm management.

Higher feed prices therefore increase the working capital needed to sustain birds throughout the production cycle.

He said farmers could still earn returns by selling mature birds at higher prices, but the substantial investment required to establish a farm discouraged prospective entrants.

The approaching harmattan season presents another challenge, Nabegu said, as farmers may need additional lighting and heating to maintain suitable conditions for their birds.

Proper lighting helps birds access feed and water, while adequate warmth supports their health and growth.

Other farmers described similar financial pressures. Ruth Johnson said the cost of running her poultry business had increased considerably compared with the previous year, particularly for feed, medication and day-old chicks.

Amos Patrick said he had become more cautious with spending, adjusting feeding and sales according to available funds and customer preferences.

The farmers called for government support to improve access to affordable feed and veterinary medicines, saying lower input costs would ease financial pressure and help sustain poultry farming in Kano State.

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