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

This study assessed the profitability of poultry feed marketing among marketers in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of poultry feed marketers, identify the types of feeds marketed, analyze the gross margin, and examine the constraints associated with poultry feed marketing in the study area. Both primary and secondary data were used for the study. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to poultry feed marketers in selected markets, including Monday Market, Gidan Madara, Bama Road, and Bulumkutu Market. Secondary data were obtained from journals, books, and government reports. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select forty (40) respondents. Descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed that the majority (75%) of the respondents were male, with a mean age of 38 years. Most respondents had about 10 years of marketing experience, and 35% had at least secondary education. The most commonly sold feed type was starter feed (42.5%). The gross margin was estimated at 29%. The study further revealed that inadequate access to information, credit facilities, and transportation were the major constraints affecting poultry feed marketing in the study area. Based on the findings, it is recommended that women should be encouraged to participate more in poultry feed marketing, credit facilities should be made accessible, and improved access to market information should be provided to enhance business performance.