Constraints to Livestock Production among Rural Households in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The potential of livestock production as a veritable means of livelihood especially in rural areas is constrained by the array of challenges. This study ascertained constraints limiting livestock production potentials among rural households in southwest Nigeria. Simple random sampling was used to select 131 and 116 rural households from Ondo and Osun, respectively. Data were analysed using mean, percentages, Pearson product-moment correlation and t-test. Respondents reared goats and sheep, poultry, and pig purposely for household use (91.9%) and sales (85.0%). Management system mostly practised was semi-intensive (71.7%). Radio ranked highest among information sources. Inadequate capital ( =2.01) limits goat/sheep production, poultry production was constrained by predators ( =1.98), while the high cost of livestock input ( =1.93) limits pig production. Poultry production constraints were significantly higher in Ondo (26.77±9.11) relative to Osun (22.72±11.38). Information sources significantly influenced constraints on livestock production (r=0.309). Household size (r=0.170) and years of experience (r=0.179) significantly relate to constraints to livestock production. The study recommends community and rural banking to facilitate easy access to loans and credit facilities; improved veterinary services and an increase in livestock extension personnel.