A Rapid Survey of the Negative Effects of Intensive Poultry Farming in some parts of Nigeria

In order to evaluate the negative impacts of intensive poultry farming in Nigeria, a structured questionnaire was designed in a bid to be administered to farmers who rear broiler chickens in the country. The study was predicated on the need to investigate possible negative effects associated with this enterprise, which contributes about 40% of Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Hitherto, such a study had not been undertaken and the need to generate credible data that will help inform proper policy formulation was identified. Broiler chickens were intentionally chosen due to their lower initial capital requirements, faster life-cycle completion, and the prevalence of contract farming initiatives. Contract farming, a form of integration characterized by strong vertical control, empowers companies to oversee various operational aspects including production methods, product attributes, quantity, quality, and project timing. A total number of 300 questionnaires were administered to broiler chicken farmers across three regions (South-West, North-Central and South-East). Findings from this study revealed that a significant portion (64.4%) of poultry farmers who served as respondents were involved in crop farming activities. Others were involved in additional activities such as feed-milling and processing of farm produce. It also revealed that farmers paid insufficient to the deleterious effects of indiscriminate disposal of poultry farm wastes. It is advocated that more environment-friendly means of waste management should be widely adopted. Keywords: Poultry, Intensive, farming, factory, Nigeria