Assessment of Rabbit Production and Management in Peri-Urban Areas of Lagos State

This study assesses rabbit production systems and management practices in peri-urban areas of Lagos State, South West Nigeria. Rabbit farming has gained increasing interest in peri-urban areas of Lagos as an alternative protein source requiring minimal land and capital relative to other livestock enterprises. The rapid growth of the Lagos metropolitan area has created significant demand for affordable animal protein, positioning rabbit farming as a potentially important food security and income generation activity. This study uses a descriptive survey design, collecting data from 140 rabbit farmers in Ikorodu, Alimosho, and Badagry local government areas. Variables documented include farm scale, breed types, housing systems, feeding management, reproduction performance, health challenges, and market arrangements. Descriptive statistics are applied. Findings reveal that sampled farms range from backyard operations of 5 to 15 does to small commercial units of up to 80 does. New Zealand White and Californian breeds predominate, managed in cage systems with hay and commercial concentrate feeding. Average litter size is 6.8 kits and weaning mortality averages 18 percent. Coccidia and respiratory diseases are the most prevalent health challenges. Marketing is predominantly through live animal sales to urban food markets, with prices averaging 3,500 naira per kilogram live weight. The study concludes that rabbit farming in Lagos peri-urban areas is a viable micro-enterprise with good market demand. It recommends a Lagos State rabbit industry development programme focusing on breed improvement, health management, and market organisation.

Keywords: rabbit production, peri-urban farming, Lagos State, New Zealand White, small livestock.