Survey of Fish Feed Millers and Fish Farmers for Sustainable Aquaculture in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Study of Nigeria

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the fish farmers and feed millers in the study areas to determine their coping strategies, the types of feeds they use, the ingredients in their formulations, the sources of the ingredients, and any other relevant information that could aid in the scaling of sustainable local ingredients and feeds. Questionnaires were administered in Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 22 States and the FCT cutting across the 6 geopolitical zones (North Central (NC), North-East (NE), North-West (NW), South-East (SE), South-South (SS) and South-West (SW)) of Nigeria from June to December 2023 to obtain information on activities of the feed millers and fish farmers in respect of the use of local ingredients from 2018 – 2022 to improve local feed production, reduce cost and support sustainable aquaculture development. A total of 459 structured questionnaires were administered to 130 feed millers and 329 fish farmers. Majority (65%) of the feed millers produced less than 5 tons per day in all the geopolitical zones across all business age categories (<5 years, 5-10 years and >10 years). Feed sizes of 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and above were produced at different capacity in all geopolitical zones. The lowest selling price of ₦540 per kg of feed was recorded in the south- west zone while the highest value of ₦1,599.36 was recorded in the South-East zone. Fish farmers in the South-West region have the highest fish production capacity, with 21.28% producing over 1000kg/year, while those in the South-South region have the lowest, with only 0.91% producing between 100-1000kg/year. 78% of fish farmers operate full-time, while only 22% do it part time. Most farmers (47%) use earthen ponds, followed by 24% who use concrete ponds. Some utilize both types, and a few make use of all available facilities. Fish farming and feed milling business can thrive well in Nigeria if favourable factors are considered.