How to Start Goat Farming in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)

Goat farming is one of the fastest-growing agribusiness opportunities in Nigeria. With high demand for goat meat (“chevon”), milk, and by-products, many farmers are turning to goats as a profitable and sustainable venture.

If you are thinking of starting a goat farm in Nigeria, this guide will take you through the essential steps you need to succeed.

Why Goat Farming in Nigeria is Profitable

• High demand: Goat meat is widely consumed across Nigeria, especially during festive seasons.
• Low startup cost: Compared to cattle or poultry, goats require less capital to start.
• Fast reproduction: Goats mature quickly and can give birth to twins or triplets.
• Adaptability: They can thrive in different climates and feed mostly on grasses and crop residues.

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

Before you start, study your local market. Ask questions like:

• Who are your potential buyers (individuals, restaurants, meat sellers)?
• What breeds are in demand (Sokoto Red, Sahel, Boer)?
• What is the average selling price per goat in your area?

Tip: Visit local livestock markets and speak with goat sellers to understand price fluctuations.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Location

A good farm location is essential for healthy goats. Look for:

• Dry, elevated land to avoid waterlogging.
• Security: Protect against theft and predators.
• Easy access to feed and water sources.

Step 3: Build Proper Goat Housing

Goats need clean, well-ventilated housing.

• Use wooden floors or concrete with proper drainage.
• Ensure enough space: 1.5–2m² per goat.
• Provide separate pens for kids, bucks, and does.
• Keep the house dry to prevent diseases like pneumonia and foot rot.

Step 4: Select the Right Goat Breed

Popular goat breeds in Nigeria include:

• Sokoto Red: Known for meat.
• Sahel: Tall, hardy, and good for milk.
• Boer: Exotic, fast-growing but costly.
• West African Dwarf (WAD): Small but resistant to diseases.

Choose a breed based on your goal — meat, milk, or both.

Step 5: Feeding & Nutrition

Goats eat grasses, legumes, crop residues, and concentrates.

• Provide balanced nutrition (protein, energy, minerals).
• Add mineral salt licks to prevent deficiencies.
• Supply clean water daily.
• Avoid moldy feed to reduce health risks.

Step 6: Breeding & Reproduction

• A female goat (doe) can reproduce twice a year.
• Gestation period is about 150 days (5 months).
• Practice controlled mating to prevent inbreeding.
• Keep good records of breeding dates and offspring.

Step 7: Health Care & Disease Prevention

Goats are prone to diseases like pneumonia, foot rot, and worms.

• Vaccinate against PPR, anthrax, and enterotoxemia.
• Deworm regularly (every 3 months).
• Maintain good hygiene in the pen.
• Quarantine new goats before mixing with the herd.

Tip: Work with a veterinarian for a proper vaccination schedule.

Step 8: Marketing & Sales

Profits come when you sell smartly.

• Sell to local markets, abattoirs, restaurants, and events.
• Target festive periods like Eid-el-Kabir, Christmas, and New Year when demand peaks.
• Explore online marketing via WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.

Step 9: Financial Planning & Record Keeping

• Track expenses (feed, drugs, housing) and income (goat sales).
• Start small, reinvest profits, and scale gradually.
• Consider forming partnerships or cooperatives for bulk sales.

Final Thoughts

Goat farming in Nigeria is a profitable agribusiness if done with proper planning and management. Start small, learn continuously, and apply good practices in feeding, housing, and health care.

With patience and consistency, your goat farm can grow into a sustainable business that provides steady income.