June 19, 2025 – Lagos, Nigeria
Pig farming is quietly emerging as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing agribusiness sectors, with an estimated worth of over ₦250 billion, driven by rising local consumption, export demand, and increasing investor interest in livestock production.

Once stigmatized due to cultural and religious beliefs in certain regions, the piggery business in Nigeria is now turning into a goldmine, especially in the South-East, South-South, and parts of the South-West.

From small backyard pens to expansive pig breeding estates, the industry is producing millions of naira in monthly revenue for smart farmers leveraging modern breeding techniques, efficient feed systems, and digital marketing.

A Growing Market With Massive Potential

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria consumes over 1 million tons of pork annually, yet only about 30% of the pork demand is met locally. This supply gap presents a lucrative opportunity for pig farmers and investors.

One successful pig farmer, Chinedu Okonkwo, who operates a 300-sow farm in Ogun State, shared his journey:

“I started with just four pigs in 2018. Today, my farm generates over ₦10 million monthly. The secret is good hygiene, quality feed, and proper breeding,” he said.

Chinedu exports processed pork products to West African countries and supplies to local restaurants, hotels, and meat markets.

Job Creation and Youth Empowerment

Beyond profitability, pig farming is creating thousands of jobs for youth and women in rural communities. From animal health services and pork processing to logistics and feed production, the value chain is expanding rapidly.

Government and private-sector stakeholders are also stepping in. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and several state governments have launched livestock support programs targeting piggery entrepreneurs.

Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite the growth, the industry still faces major hurdles including:

• Inadequate veterinary services
• Poor access to affordable feed
• Limited cold chain infrastructure for pork preservation
• Market volatility and disease outbreaks like ASF (African Swine Fever)

However, many industry experts believe that with better regulation, access to credit, and nationwide sensitization on pork’s nutritional value, Nigeria’s pig farming industry could double its value in the next five years.

The Bottom Line

Whether you are a farmer, investor, or agribusiness enthusiast, the pig farming business in Nigeria offers immense profit potential. With proper planning, training, and access to capital, entrepreneurs can tap into this multi-billion naira opportunity and contribute to Nigeria’s food security and export diversification.