A Livestock Specialist at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Ibadan, Dr Yemi Popoola, has advised Nigerians to explore snail farming which he described as a very profitable means of livelihood.
The livestock specialist disclosed this on Wednesday in Ibadan stating that Nigerians ought to explore snail farming as the Federal Government was now promoting the diversification of the economy.
Popoola explained that snail breeding could yield a quick profit if the farmers understood the essentials of modern techniques and focused on the species in high demand in Nigeria.
He opined that snail farming requires less capital and space compared to poultry and pig farming while the management practices are simple.
According to him, “Snail farming could be practised as a secondary occupation because it requires less time to maintain while their feed is cheap and can be locally sourced.
“ These include leaves, tubers, vegetables as well as farm and household wastes.
“Snail also has a great market all over the country and in the West African sub-region.
“Domestic snail farming in Nigeria can meet up the family nutritional demands. Commercial snail production can decrease the importation of frozen meat or fish from foreign countries.
‘’This can save money and make the economy of Nigeria strong,”
He urged snail farmers to take advantage of the seasonality of its market to gain premium prices for their snails
.“Target the high-end customers, hotels, restaurants and households which can afford to pay a premium for a steady supply of the product.
“If you supply all year round, you are likely to earn less during the rainy season when supply is in abundance and more in the dry season when the product is scarce.
“You can buy cheaply from research institutes, farmers and other remote areas while the supply is high during the rainy season.” He said.
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