How To Start A Lucrative Fish Farming Business In Nigeria And Africa: The Complete Guide

Fish farming is an increasingly important industry in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. With a population that is projected to grow to over 2 billion people by 2050, there is an increasing demand for food, and fish is an important source of protein. Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, is a sustainable way to meet this demand while reducing the pressure on wild fish populations. Nigeria is the largest producer of fish in sub-Saharan Africa, with an annual production of over 1.1 million metric tonnes.

Fish farming also offers significant economic benefits to small-scale farmers, as well as larger commercial enterprises. In Nigeria, the aquaculture industry has created over 1.5 million jobs and is a significant source of income for many rural communities. The industry is also projected to grow rapidly in the coming years, as the government has set a goal of achieving self-sufficiency in fish production by 2025.

In addition to domestic demand, there is also significant export potential for Nigerian fish farmers. With a growing middle class in neighboring countries and beyond, there is a demand for high-quality fish products that can be exported from Nigeria. The country has a comparative advantage in the production of certain species of fish, such as catfish, which are in high demand both domestically and internationally.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Poultry Farming Business In Nigeria And Africa: The Complete Guide

 

What Is A Fish?

Fish is a group of aquatic animals that are harvested for food or used in aquaculture. It refers to various species of cold-blooded, aquatic vertebrates, including tilapia, catfish, salmon, and carp. The scientific name for fish is Pisces.

Fish are an important source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for human consumption and are also used in the production of fish meal and fish oil for animal feed and industrial uses.

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What Is Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa About?

Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, refers to the process of raising fish in controlled aquatic environments for commercial purposes. This practice involves breeding, rearing, and harvesting of different species of fish in ponds, tanks, or other aquatic enclosures.

Fish farming has been recognized as a lucrative business venture and is increasingly becoming popular in Nigeria and Africa due to the high demand for fish in the market, particularly for tilapia and catfish species.

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Benefits of Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

Here are 10 benefits of fish farming in Nigeria and Africa:

  1. High profitability: Fish farming has the potential to generate high returns on investment, making it a lucrative business opportunity.
  2. Improved nutrition: Fish is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, and fish farming can help to increase access to these vital resources.
  3. Job creation: Fish farming can provide employment opportunities for individuals, particularly in rural areas where job opportunities may be limited.
  4. Reduced pressure on wild fish stocks: Fish farming can help to reduce the pressure on wild fish stocks, which can be overfished and threatened by climate change.
  5. Increased food security: Fish farming can contribute to increased food security by providing a reliable source of food for local communities.
  6. Diversification of income: Fish farming can provide an additional source of income for farmers and other individuals, increasing their financial stability.
  7. Preservation of aquatic habitats: By reducing the demand for wild fish, fish farming can help to preserve aquatic habitats and protect biodiversity.
  8. Export opportunities: Nigeria and other African countries have a high demand for fish, creating opportunities for fish farmers to export their products.
  9. Low carbon footprint: Compared to other forms of livestock farming, fish farming has a lower carbon footprint and can be more environmentally sustainable.
  10. Scalability: Fish farming can be scaled up or down depending on the needs of the farmer, making it suitable for both small-scale and large-scale operations.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Cassava Farming Business In Nigeria And Africa: The Complete Guide

 

Business Opportunities In Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

Some business opportunities in fish farming in Nigeria and Africa include:

  1. Fish farming is a source of income: Fish farming can be a profitable business venture, as the demand for fish continues to rise in Nigeria and Africa. It provides an opportunity for farmers to earn income through the sale of fish.
  2. Fish farming provides food security: Fish farming provides a reliable source of protein that can help address food insecurity in Nigeria and Africa. It can contribute to reducing the importation of fish, and make fish more accessible and affordable.
  3. Fish farming creates employment opportunities: Fish farming creates employment opportunities for people in rural and urban areas. It requires a wide range of skills and provides a variety of job opportunities, including technical experts, fish farmers, marketers, and other supporting roles.
  4. Fish farming promotes local production: With fish farming, local production can be increased, reducing the need for importation. This can lead to reduced foreign exchange expenditures, and promote economic growth.
  5. Fish farming boosts the economy: Fish farming can contribute to economic growth and development in Nigeria and Africa. It has the potential to create jobs, increase income, and reduce poverty.
  6. Fish farming provides an alternative to wild fishing: As the demand for fish continues to grow, there is increasing pressure on wild fish stocks. Fish farming provides an alternative to wild fishing, reducing pressure on wild fish populations and contributing to their conservation.
  7. Fish farming supports sustainable agriculture: Fish farming can be integrated with crop farming, creating a more sustainable agriculture system. The waste from fish can be used as fertilizer for crops, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
  8. Fish farming can be done on a small or large scale: Fish farming can be done on a small or large scale, making it accessible to a wide range of people. It can be done in small ponds or large reservoirs, and can be done with simple or sophisticated technology.
  9. Fish farming can be done in different environments: Fish farming can be done in a wide range of environments, including freshwater, saltwater, and brackish water. This makes it possible for fish farming to be done in different regions, and under different conditions.
  10. Fish farming is adaptable: Fish farming can be adapted to meet changing market demands, environmental conditions, and other factors. This makes it a flexible and resilient business opportunity.

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Facts About Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

  1. Nigeria is the largest producer of fish in Africa, with an annual output of over 1 million metric tons.
  2. Fish farming is a major source of livelihood for many people in Nigeria and Africa, especially those in rural areas.
  3. Tilapia and catfish are the most commonly farmed fish species in Nigeria and Africa.
  4. Fish farming is one of the fastest-growing agricultural industries in Nigeria and Africa.
  5. Fish farming has the potential to contribute significantly to food security in Nigeria and Africa.
  6. Fish is a good source of protein, and fish farming can help to address the protein deficiency in many parts of Nigeria and Africa.
  7. Fish farming is a low-capital investment opportunity that can provide a steady source of income.
  8. Fish farming can be done on a small scale, making it suitable for small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs.
  9. Fish farming can help to reduce overfishing and the depletion of fish stocks in natural water bodies.
  10. Fish farming can be done in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
  11. The demand for fish and fish products is high in Nigeria and Africa, making fish farming a profitable venture.
  12. Fish farming is less dependent on weather conditions than other forms of agriculture, making it a more reliable source of income.
  13. Fish farming can help to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in rural areas.
  14. Fish farming can be integrated with other forms of agriculture, such as crop farming and livestock rearing.
  15. Fish farming can be used to rehabilitate degraded wetlands and aquatic habitats.
  16. Fish farming can help to improve water quality by reducing the amount of pollutants and nutrients in natural water bodies.
  17. Fish farming can be done using different techniques, including cage farming, pond farming, and recirculating systems.
  18. Fish farming requires proper management and regular monitoring to ensure the health and well-being of the fish.
  19. Fish farming can be a sustainable and environmentally friendly form of food production.
  20. Fish farming can help to reduce the importation of fish products, which can save foreign exchange for Nigeria and other African countries.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Onion Farming Business (Complete Guide)

 

Types Of Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

There are several types of fish farming practices in Nigeria and Africa, including:

  1. Pond culture: This is the most common type of fish farming, where fish are raised in ponds or tanks.
  2. Cage culture: This involves raising fish in cages or pens, usually in natural water bodies such as lakes or rivers.
  3. Raceway culture: This type of farming involves raising fish in a man-made channel or raceway.
  4. Integrated fish farming: This involves combining fish farming with other types of agriculture, such as crop farming or livestock farming.
  5. Recirculating aquaculture system (RAS): This involves raising fish in a closed system where water is continuously recycled and reused.
  6. Flow-through system: In this type of farming, water flows continuously through the system, providing a constant supply of fresh water to the fish.
  7. Aeroponic culture: This is a type of aquaculture that involves growing fish in a soil-free environment where the plants are suspended in the air and their roots are sprayed with nutrient-rich water.
  8. Hybrid culture: This involves crossbreeding different species of fish to create hybrid offspring with desirable traits.
  9. Brackish water culture: This involves raising fish in water with a salinity level between freshwater and seawater, typically found in estuaries or river mouths.
  10. Mariculture: This involves farming fish in the ocean, either in cages or in enclosed ponds.

 

Types Of Fishes Used For Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

There are several types of fishes that are commonly used for fish farming in Nigeria and Africa. Some of the most popular types include:

  1. Catfish: This is one of the most commonly farmed fish species in Nigeria and Africa due to its hardiness and fast growth rate.
  2. Tilapia: This fish species is also popular for fish farming due to its adaptability to various environments and high reproductive potential.
  3. Trout: This fish species is commonly farmed in colder regions of Nigeria and Africa where the water temperature is low.
  4. Carp: This fish species is widely farmed due to its ability to survive in various environmental conditions.
  5. Mackerel: This fish species is highly valued for its meat and is commonly farmed in coastal regions.
  6. Salmon: This fish species is commonly farmed in cold-water regions of Africa and is highly valued for its meat.
  7. Crayfish: This is not a fish, but a crustacean species that is also commonly farmed in Nigeria and Africa.

The choice of fish species for farming will depend on factors such as the climatic conditions, availability of resources, market demand, and the farmer’s level of experience.

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The Rearing & Breeding Seasons For Fish In Nigeria and Africa

The breeding and rearing of fishes can be done throughout the year, although there are specific seasons that are optimal for production.

In Nigeria and Africa, the breeding and rearing of fishes is usually done during the rainy season, which typically runs from March to November, when water is readily available. During this period, there is an abundance of natural food sources for the fishes, which helps to promote their growth and development. The dry season, which runs from December to February, is usually not suitable for fish farming as the water levels in ponds and rivers tend to be low and the water temperature high, which can lead to poor fish growth and survival.

In conclusion, the optimal season for fish farming in Nigeria and Africa is during the rainy season when there is abundant water supply and natural food sources for the fishes. However, with the use of modern aquaculture techniques and technologies, fishes can be reared and bred all year round.

 

How To Start Fish Farming In Nigeria: Step-By-Step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to start fish farming in Nigeria and Africa:

  1. Conduct research and feasibility study: Research on fish farming, conduct a feasibility study and develop a business plan.
  2. Choose a suitable location: Select a location with adequate water supply and good soil quality.
  3. Get a suitable pond: Construct or purchase an appropriate pond based on the fish species you intend to farm.
  4. Get fingerlings or juveniles: Purchase healthy fingerlings or juveniles from a reputable hatchery.
  5. Stock your pond: After getting your fingerlings or juveniles, stock your pond and provide good feeding.
  6. Provide good nutrition: Provide high-quality feed and supplements to enhance fish growth.
  7. Proper pond management: Maintain water quality by regularly changing the water and managing pond sludge.
  8. Control fish diseases: Develop a preventive health program and maintain good hygiene to prevent fish diseases.
  9. Marketing and sales: Develop a marketing and sales plan to sell your fish to local markets or export.
  10. Seek professional assistance: Get help from professionals in the field, including fishery extension agents, consultants, and researchers.

By following these steps, you can start a successful fish farming business in Nigeria and Africa.

See Also: How To Write The Perfect Business Plan In Nigeria and Africa That Will Get Funded: The Complete Guide

How To Process & Package Fish In Nigeria or Africa

Processing and packaging fish in Nigeria and Africa involves a series of steps to ensure the fish is safe for consumption and can be transported to markets. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to process and package fish:

  1. Harvesting: Fish are typically harvested from ponds or rivers using nets or traps. The fish should be handled with care to avoid damage that may affect the quality of the final product.
  2. Bleeding and Gutting: After harvesting, the fish are immediately bled to remove blood and then gutted to remove internal organs. This step is crucial to prevent the fish from spoiling and to ensure a longer shelf life.
  3. Scaling and Cleaning: The fish are then scaled to remove the outer layer of skin, and cleaned to remove any remaining blood or debris.
  4. Filleting: Depending on the market demand, the fish may be filleted into smaller pieces or left whole.
  5. Salting and Drying: Salting and drying are traditional methods of preserving fish that are still widely used in Nigeria and Africa. The fish is rubbed with salt and then dried in the sun for several days until it is completely dry.
  6. Smoking: Smoking is another popular method of fish preservation. The fish is first salted and then smoked using wood or charcoal. The smoking process imparts a distinct flavor and aroma to the fish and also extends its shelf life.
  7. Packaging: Once the fish is processed, it is packaged in various ways depending on the market demand. It can be packaged fresh in ice, frozen, or vacuum-sealed for transport to distant markets.

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Types Of Equipment & Tools Used In The Fish Farming Business In Nigeria or Africa

  1. Fish Cleaning Equipment: This equipment is used to clean the fish and remove scales, skin, and other unwanted parts. The equipment includes a scaling machine, gutting machine, and filleting machine.
  2. Fish Smoking Equipment: This equipment is used to smoke the fish and preserve it for a longer shelf life. The equipment includes a smoking kiln, a chimney, and a fuel source.
  3. Fish Drying Equipment: This equipment is used to dry the fish and preserve it for a longer shelf life. The equipment includes a drying rack or dryer, a fan, and a heating source.
  4. Fish Packaging Equipment: This equipment is used to package the processed fish. The equipment includes a sealing machine, packaging bags, and labels.
  5. Fish Freezing Equipment: This equipment is used to freeze the fish and preserve it for a longer shelf life. The equipment includes a freezer, a thermometer, and a temperature controller.
  6. Fish Grading Equipment: This equipment is used to grade the fish according to size and weight. The equipment includes a fish grading machine and a weighing scale.
  7. Fish Filleting Equipment: This equipment is used to remove the bones and skin from the fish fillets. The equipment includes a filleting machine, knives, and cutting boards.
  8. Fish Processing Equipment: This equipment is used to process the fish into various products such as fish fillets, fish nuggets, and fish sticks. The equipment includes a mixer, a grinder, a battering machine, and a frying machine.

All of the above equipment is important for processing and packaging fish in Nigeria and Africa. However, the specific equipment needed may depend on the type and scale of the fish farming operation.

See Also: How To Start A Business In Nigeria and Africa: The Complete Guide

 

Target Market For The Fish Farming Business In Nigeria or Africa

The target market for fish in Nigeria and Africa is vast as fish is a common source of protein in the region. The following are the potential target markets for fish in Nigeria and Africa:

  1. Domestic Consumption Market: The domestic market is the largest consumer of fish in Nigeria and Africa. The increasing population and urbanization in Nigeria and Africa have led to a rise in demand for fish. Fish is an essential source of protein for many households, and there is a high demand for it in urban and rural areas.
  2. Export Market: The export market for fish in Nigeria and Africa is significant, with several African countries exporting fish to other parts of the world. Countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal have significant export markets for fish, especially to the European Union.
  3. Food Processing Industry: The food processing industry is another potential market for fish in Nigeria and Africa. The fish can be processed into various products like fish fillets, fish cakes, fish sausages, fish sticks, and others, which can be sold to supermarkets and other retailers.
  4. Hospitality Industry: The hospitality industry, which includes hotels, restaurants, and fast-food outlets, is a significant market for fish products. With the rise in tourism in Nigeria and Africa, the demand for fish products in the hospitality industry is on the rise.
  5. Pet Food Industry: The pet food industry is another potential market for fish products in Nigeria and Africa. Fish products like fish meal and fish oil are used in the production of pet food, which is in high demand in Nigeria and Africa.

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How To Sell or Market Fish Products In Nigeria or Africa

Here are 10 ways to sell or market fish farming products in Nigeria and Africa:

  1. Sell to local markets: Local markets are a great place to start selling fish, as they are easily accessible and the demand is usually high.
  2. Sell to restaurants: Restaurants often have a high demand for fresh fish, and they are willing to pay a premium price for quality products.
  3. Sell to supermarkets: Supermarkets and grocery stores are always looking for fresh and healthy food options, and fish can be a great addition to their shelves.
  4. Sell online: With the increasing popularity of e-commerce in Nigeria and Africa, selling fish online can be a great way to reach a wider audience.
  5. Export: Nigeria and Africa have a large market for fish exports, and exporting can be a great way to expand your business and increase profits.
  6. Supply to caterers: Caterers require a consistent supply of fresh fish for events and parties, making them a potential market for your fish farming products.
  7. Supply to hotels and resorts: Similar to restaurants, hotels and resorts require a constant supply of fresh fish for their guests, making them a potential market for your products.
  8. Partner with wholesalers: Wholesalers often have a large network of buyers, making them a great potential partner for selling your fish farming products.
  9. Attend trade shows: Trade shows and exhibitions can be a great way to showcase your products and network with potential buyers.
  10. Advertise through social media: Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are great for advertising your fish farming products, as they allow you to reach a wide audience at a low cost.

 

Challenges Of Fish Farming In Nigeria and Africa

Here are 15 challenges of fish farming in Nigeria and Africa:

  1. Lack of access to quality fish feed: This challenge arises due to the high cost of fish feed, which is often imported, and the limited availability of locally produced fish feed.
  2. Inadequate funding: Fish farming requires substantial capital investment, including for the construction of ponds, purchase of fingerlings, feed, and other equipment. Many fish farmers in Nigeria and Africa struggle to obtain the necessary funding to start or expand their operations.
  3. Poor water quality: The quality of the water in the ponds is critical for the survival and growth of fish. Poor water quality can lead to fish diseases, mortality, and stunted growth.
  4. Inadequate infrastructure: This includes inadequate roads, electricity, and water supply, which can make it difficult to transport fish to market, maintain water quality, and power necessary equipment.
  5. Lack of access to markets: Many small-scale fish farmers struggle to find reliable buyers for their fish, which can result in spoilage and economic loss.
  6. Limited technical knowledge: Many small-scale fish farmers lack knowledge of best practices for fish farming, including disease management, feeding practices, and pond maintenance.
  7. High mortality rate: Mortality rates can be high due to poor water quality, disease, and inadequate feeding practices.
  8. Climate change: Climate change can impact water levels and water quality, which can affect fish production and survival.
  9. Predators: Predatory animals, such as birds and snakes, can prey on fish in ponds and tanks, leading to significant losses for fish farmers.
  10. Theft: Fish theft is a common problem, particularly for fish farmers in remote areas with limited security measures.
  11. Limited access to credit facilities: Without access to credit facilities, fish farmers may struggle to invest in the necessary infrastructure and equipment to grow their operations.
  12. Lack of government support: Many fish farmers in Nigeria and Africa lack government support in the form of subsidies, training programs, and access to infrastructure.
  13. Competition with imported fish: Imported fish can often be cheaper and of higher quality, making it difficult for local fish farmers to compete.
  14. Lack of suitable land: Finding suitable land for fish farming can be challenging in some areas, particularly in densely populated areas where land is expensive.
  15. Inadequate extension services: Many small-scale fish farmers lack access to extension services, which provide training and technical support for fish farming. This can limit their ability to improve their operations and increase their yields.

Addressing these challenges is critical to the sustainable growth of the fish farming industry in Nigeria and Africa.

See Also: How To Start A Lucrative Pig Farming Business In Nigeria (Comprehensive Guide)

 

To Sum It Up

In conclusion, fish farming is a viable and profitable business in Nigeria and Africa. With the increasing demand for fish and the decline in fish stocks in the wild, fish farming presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and farmers alike. There are various types of fish farming systems, including pond, cage, and tank systems, and a range of fish species can be farmed, including catfish, tilapia, and carp.

Fish farming offers numerous benefits, including increased food production, job creation, and reduced pressure on wild fish populations. However, there are also significant challenges to fish farming in Nigeria and Africa, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to credit, and high production costs. Overcoming these challenges will require significant investment and government support.

Despite the challenges, there is a growing market for fish farming products, both domestically and internationally, with opportunities for exports to Europe, the United States, and Asia. To succeed in fish farming, entrepreneurs must carefully plan their operations, obtain necessary permits and licenses, and implement best practices for feeding, water management, and disease control. With the right approach, fish farming has the potential to be a lucrative and sustainable business in Nigeria and Africa.

 

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What are your thoughts on how to start fish farming in Nigeria, Africa, or any other part of the world? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

 

Image Source: Pixabay

Stan Edom
Stan Edom
I'm an entrepreneur with expertise in supply chain management, international trade, small business development, e-commerce, internet startups, renewable energy, and agriculture. I'm also a network engineer, I.T security expert, and computer programmer. In my spare time when I'm not working out at the gym, I try to solve problems people face in their everyday lives with whatever means necessary.

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133 Comments

  1. I’m really interested in fish farming. I don’t want to consume alone. But I want to see hw I can use dis medium to serve my country. I’m not going into dis base on it’s profit but to reduce unemployment in my region.

  2. Nice post, very insightful. Keep it up, I’ve bookmarked your site for future reference purpose.

  3. Thank you for that insightful write-up. Please, I live in Abeokuta Ogun state. I am interested in setting up fish farming. Please do you any associate or colleague whom you can recommend for me to take me through the all technical know how of the business. Faithful one please, if you have.

    Thank you.

    • Hi Damilare,

      You can visit a local fish farm close to you.

      Also, a fish farming eBook would eventually be available on the blog.

      Do lookout for it.

      Thank you for asking.

  4. Thank you for that honest write up to help people, especially the poor to help themselves. Thanks so much. I am in Lagos now and I want to know where I can do the practical before starting ,for me not to make mistakes. I need your advice pls.

    • Hi Smart,

      You can visit a fish farm to learn how they work.

      A google search will show you information on some fish farms in Lagos.

      Give them a call and ask if you could be given a tour.

      Thank you for asking.

  5. Great work there. Please how thus the issue of climate change affect aquaculture fish business in Nigeria and what is the possible solution especially to avoid losses. Thank you

    • Hi Opeyemi,

      An increase in the water temperature for instance, can affect the fishes physiological process. This generally will affect the lifespan of the juveniles, their spawning rate, reproduction rate, yield, and general population size.

      These are just a few effects that negative climatic conditions can have on the fishes.

      Growing them in a more controlled environment can help them have a higher chance of survival and increased population.

      Thank you for asking.

    • Hi Benjamin,

      Fingerlings are fishes that are between 1 week to 3 weeks old and are about the size of a finger. While Juveniles are fishes that are between 4 weeks to 6 weeks old, which is the last stage of their growth before they become fully grown fishes.

      I hope this answers your question.

      Thank you for asking.

    • Hi Segun,

      You can buy fish food in a local market around you. You can also manufacture the fish feed yourself.

      Thank you for asking.

      • Hi! Mr Stan, really appreciate your efforts here, pertaining to your reply to Segun question on how he can manufacture the food himself. Pls I want you to elaborate more on it.I personally love to invest into this business and I will need your help and advise on it. Can you please share me your contact both email and phone number.

  6. Thank you for your great work. I’ve been practicing fish farming for a year now. I sort them properly to my best but the challenges I am facing is on how to make all of them weight at least 1kg within 4 to 5 months interval. Secondly, how do you manage their feeding routine so that you don’t spend much. Please share with me any profitable tips that can be of help, thank you. WhatsApp no. 08032636002.

    • Hi Bassil,

      We’d be holding a fish farming workshop sometime this year. I think you’ll gain a lot from it.

      Concerning spending less, I’d advise you get a pelletizing machine, so you can make your own fish food.

      This brings the cost down and helps you monitor the feeding routine a lot less.

      Thank you for asking.

      • Hello Stan,

        I’m quite interested in the upcoming training. Kindly send me the training schedule so that I will make provisions to attend

    • Hi Larry,

      I’ll have a fish farming eBook up on the blog soon.

      Do lookout for it.

      Thank you for asking.

      • please, is the fish farming ebook available now ?

        please i need the Ebook, if its ready.

        Thanks for your time.

        • Hi Pushkin,

          It’s not available yet.

          When it is, we’ll do well to let everyone know.

          Thank you for asking.

  7. Of a TRUTH this is educational and informative. It worth much more than all those greedy wannabe Business Plan Consultants who copy and paste other peoples mental properties.

    Kudos for your selflessness to freely educate hungry Nigerians to be self reliant through aquaculuture

    • Thank you for the kind words Gidz.

      I truly do appreciate every one of them.

      Thank you also for being a reader.

      Have a wonderful time!

  8. Hi Stan Edom,

    I really appreciate your write-up. God will reward you in this selfless service. I want to start this fish farming but I don’t have any idea on how to go about it. I live in Port Harcourt and I really need your advice.

    • Hi Obnyks,

      The size of the fish pond doesn’t affect the size of the fishes, however, some factors that can affect the fish growth, and are more likely in a small pond. They are:

    • Water quality
    • Diet
    • Genetics
    • Thank you for asking.

  9. Great piece of information thanks. My cousin and I are trying to expand our fishing business, and I think we need an expert to narrow thing down for us. Please let me know if you’ll willing to, we can talk about the cost via email or so.

    • Hi Adeolu,

      It’s unwise to construct a pond beside a river.

      The reason is during the rainy season, the water level of the river will rise, and if your pond edges are not high enough, you’d wake one morning to realise all your fishes have been swept away into the river current.

      If you must construct the pond beside the river, you’d need to spend a great deal of money to ensure it is well protected from the rising water levels.

      Thank you for asking.

  10. I am rely impressed about the write-up but those picture you used, where someone can get a farm like that in lagos environment just to view and see how it being operated probably attend and acquire training and skill from there. I mean those 2 type of ponds pictures you use in that write up. Thanks

    • Hi Ayodele,

      We’ll be holding a series of workshops including fish farming, during the year.

      Do lookout for them.

      Thank you for asking.

    • Hi Ogon,

      Start up costs are highly variable and not definite, because of whatever scale you may choose to start at.

      Thank you for asking.

  11. good day,am a salary earner looking for other sources of income, am interested in fish farming and will like to know more before i venture in to it how do i reach you pls

  12. do I need to register my fish farm business with fish farmers association or government before I start up my fish faming business.

    • Hi Modibbo,

      Not necessarily immediately, but it is important you do so as soon as possible to avoid any problems.

      Thank you for asking.

  13. Wow! i feel like converting this blog in to a book and carry it every
    where i go. your blog is full of useful info. Impressive share! i have just forwarded this onto a friend who had also been conducting a little research on this. And he in fact ordered me
    dinner simply because I discovered it for him… lol. Thanks veryyy much
    for sharing this price worthy post.
    From the blogger at http://www.comofficialwebsite.com

  14. In 2014 when I had a fishpond (just 1000 catfish): my observation was that my friend we started the rearing same week had his fishes bigger than mine after 3month of rearing which till this day left me wondering why are catfish reared in earthen-pond healthier than catfish reared in concrete-pond?

    Of all your narrative you never mention the “God-factor” which means that before you start a fish farm, irrespective of how many profs you have consulted, irrespective of how many books and PDF you have read;(1) you need 3-day fasting and prayer (2) you need need to pay tithe from your capital before starting. He that has hear should hear what the spirit is saying.

    I successfully raised the 1000 juveniles without opening a book or paying for consultant. The only medical expenses I incurred for the whole 5months of rearing was #100 worth sachets of tetracycline and a 2litre keg of formaldehyde which cost #700 as at then. Every eyes that saw the harvest was shouting this is miracle because 1000 juveniles ended up becoming 1300+ matured catfish (some funny people even concluded that fishes fell from heaven to join their colleagues in the pond).

    Another notion I feel I should correct is that you said #150,000 will rear 1000catfish but I disagree. As 2014 when one juvenile is #30 then 1000= #30,000. You have not calculated feed (1st month 1bag = #4000 2nd month 3bags = #12k, 3rd month (trying to ration) you will buy at least 5bags = #20k and the fourth month and fifth month expenses are still there. To construct a pond for such size will cost more than #250k but to lease for a year is not less than #30k. You haven’t bought net, limestone, pipes, scale, ropes, etc.
    I wish I could go on but let me stop here.
    My advice is that #150k should only eye 200 juveniles if such person wants to have an enjoyable rearing and sweet testimony.
    Please, I just feel I should share my little experience meaning I’m not claiming I know better than anybody so let no one crucify me. Cheers

    • thanks for the write up. Really educative and informative. I want to start fish farm business with just 300,000 naira and i’m considering starting with 1000 juvenile. How is that feasible sir considering the recent cost of things in the market. Please advise. adeolu ogundipe 07013800211 whatsapp

    • Hi Folake,

      I’d advice you do a google search for more information or vyou visit an actual catfish farm.

      Thank you for asking.

  15. Please kindly tell me is there any other local feed for fish apart from the one we can buy in the market

  16. Thanks for this wonderful article, I want to start this business in earnest and know if I can make a living from it.

    I am grateful

    • I’m glad to know you find the article valuable, Steve.

      Wish you luck in your new business endeavor.

      Have a great time!

  17. thank you for this educative information,I now get all reason to start fish farming,hopefully in the near future.

  18. I am just an upcoming fish farmer. i started with a 1000 fingerlings. i noticed that almost everyday either two or three will die. please what can i do to avert such? since i am working on

    • Hi Seyi,

      For now, you can put 5kg of the salt in a sack, tie the sack, then drop it into the water.

      If they keep dying, I’d advise you invite a fish farming consultant to visit your farm.

      Thank you for asking.

  19. I really love the article and feel interested in the business. As a matter of fact I need the business plan because as typing here, I have an interview to be attended this week of which the business plan on this fish pond/farm was asked to present. Based on that I want to ask if the business plan can available within Monday and Tuesday? Thereafter I can now fallback for an intensive training. Thank you love to be hearing from you. Here is my number you can contact me 08063807716 right in Lagos

  20. Thanks for this wonderful idea and insight. soon you will get mails from me on how to setup fish farming business.

  21. Thanks for the information, I want to start this business but I don’t have the time to stay close and monitor the process. Please, I need your best advice, can I engage people to take care of it?

  22. How can I get professional to help me to start a fish farm business in Akure .And again is there market (buyers)for this product.

  23. Hello Stanley, thanks for your time in putting this up. I have been gathering informations concerning catfish business. I would like to speak or possibly have a face to face discussion with you. Kindly give me a reply message so we take it from there. Cheers…. Tony

  24. this is my Number. I’m planing to start fish farming. i need more information how to start it.

  25. this is my Number 09063751382. I’m planing to start fish farming. i need more information how to start it.

  26. This is very informative. However you did not state whether or not of any government/compliance requirements to venture in this kind of business such as business permit, NAFDAC, LG, Environment etc. I believe information along this angle is also relevant as it can be a big stopper. Regards and thanks on the good job.

  27. Thank you for this wonderful educative write up. Pls is local feed as good as foreign feed.

  28. This is the second time am reading your article and I must commend you are very good at what you are doing. I love your work so dearly. Keep I it up remain blessed. I also would want you to please send me this your article on PDF to my my mail. Thank you.

  29. Can I have your telephone numbers so that I can contact you to assist me in setting one soones as I intend to go into it.
    I intend to start mine at my backyard, how much would it cost for starting with a thousand (1000) fingerlings?

  30. Thanks for the information, have been reading from different write up, i can boldly say that have learnt a lot is always my dream to farm, especially fish, but life in Lagos is the barrier, i hope to setup a pond soon. and i will like to be your student.

  31. I’ll love to go into frozen food business. For chicken, beef, turkey. fish etc. Do you have and guide on it?

  32. Your work is really good and I appreciate this information. I forever prefer to read quality and glad I found this thing in your post. Thank you for the comprehensive article.

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