5 Things Every Nigerian Poultry Farmer Must Know Before Expanding in 2026

Expansion looks tempting when egg prices spike. But the farmers who survive 2026 will be the ones who plan around feed, biosecurity and offtake — in that order.

1. Feed is 70% of your cost. Lock it before you scale.

Maize and soybean meal volatility is the single biggest reason small poultry operations fail in their second year. Forward contracts with a co-op or a trusted aggregator beat spot-market roulette every time.

2. Biosecurity isn't optional anymore

Avian influenza outbreaks have hit at least 14 states since 2024. Footbaths, restricted entry, and an isolation pen for new birds are the minimum bar — not a nice-to-have.

3. Know your offtake before you place the next order of day-olds

The worst position to be in is finished birds and no buyer. Pre-sell to restaurants, supermarkets and event caterers before brooding the next batch.

4. Cash-flow the build, don't credit it

Loan-funded expansion in a high-rate environment compounds every other risk. Stage the build over two cycles rather than one.

5. Vaccinate on a calendar, not on a vibe

Newcastle, Gumboro and fowl pox schedules are non-negotiable. Print the schedule and pin it to the pen wall.