MARKETING OF POULTRY FEEDS IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN AREA OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study investigates the socio-economic characteristics, profitability, market margins, marketing channels, and challenges faced by poultry feed marketers in Maiduguri Metropolitan Area, Borno State. Data were collected from 25 respondents through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and net income analysis. The findings revealed that most marketers were aged 21-30 years, with 52% being single and 60% possessing tertiary education. A majority (72%) had 1-5 years of marketing experience, while 56% sourced their initial capital from friends or relatives, and 48% had an initial capital exceeding ₩1,000,000. The study established that poultry feed marketing is profitable, yielding an average net income of #239.00 per 25kg bag and a market margin of 14.76%. Key challenges identified include inadequate supply from wholesalers, price fluctuations, seasonal demand, early feed deterioration, financial constraints, high taxes, and transportation costs. Recommendations include subsidizing agricultural inputs, promoting cooperative participation to enhance economies of scale, improving credit access for marketers, and adopting modern storage solutions to reduce feed deterioration. The study concludes that poultry feed marketing presents significant profitability opportunities despite the existing challenges.