PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS OF SMALL-SCALE POULTRY ENTERPRISE IN AKURE SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Profitability of small-scale poultry farming in Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria, was assessed with emphasis on cost structures, revenue, and profitability. A total of 120 farmers were selected through stratified sampling, and data were collected using questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were employed for analysis. Results showed that most farmers were male (59.2%), with an average age of 45 years, 11.6 years of education, and 10 years of farming experience. Majority (68.3%) reared layers with flock sizes ranging from 201–1,120 birds. Feed was the major cost component, with nearly half of the farmers spending over ₦200,000. At a feed price of ₦200 per kilogram and an intake of 110 g per bird per day, ₦200,000 (equivalent to 1,000 kg of feed) would feed the minimum flock size of 201 layers for about 45 days. Other important costs included labor (₦15,000) and medication (₦4,000). Profits reached as high as ₦750,000, and 84% of farmers recorded positive margins. Regression results showed that spouse’s education significantly increased profitability (β = 0.326, p < 0.05), while feed cost (β = -0.014, p < 0.01) and labor cost (β = -0.223, p < 0.05) reduced profitability. Disease outbreaks, reported by 90% of respondents, were identified as the most pressing challenge. The study concludes that small-scale poultry farming is profitable but hindered by high input costs and weak institutional support. It recommends government intervention through subsidized feed and vaccines, access to affordable credit, and strengthened extension services to enhance productivity and sustainability.