Assessment of Turkey Production Systems in Anambra State

This study assesses turkey production systems, management practices, and economic performance among turkey producers in Anambra State, South East Nigeria. Turkey farming has experienced significant growth in Anambra State driven by demand for turkey meat during festive seasons and the emergence of a year-round supply chain for hotels and restaurants. Despite this growth, systematic data on turkey production systems and their profitability are limited. This study uses a descriptive survey design, collecting data from 95 turkey producers in Onitsha North, Awka South, and Orumba South local government areas through structured questionnaires and farm visits. Variables documented include breed types, flock sizes, housing systems, feeding management, health challenges, reproduction performance, seasonal demand patterns, and enterprise economics. Descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis are applied. Findings reveal that Nicholas White and British United Turkeys varieties predominate, kept in semi-intensive pen and range systems with grain-based diets supplemented with kitchen waste and forage. Average flock size is 42 birds per producer. Festive demand peaks during Christmas and Easter produce price premiums of 60 to 120 percent above off-season prices. Enterprise gross margins average 185,000 naira per 50-bird flock per season. Newcastle disease and blackhead disease (Histomoniasis) are the most cited health constraints. The study concludes that turkey production in Anambra State is a profitable enterprise with seasonal market dynamics. It recommends blackhead disease prevention protocols and off-season marketing strategies to stabilise income throughout the year.

Keywords: turkey production, Anambra State, festive demand, blackhead disease, enterprise economics.