Assessment of Livestock Rearing Practices and Their Economic Contribution to Farming Households in Kebbi State

This study assesses livestock rearing practices and the economic contribution of different livestock species to farming household income in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. Livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry, constitute important economic assets and income sources for farming households in Kebbi State's mixed crop-livestock economy. Understanding the relative economic importance of different species and the management practices affecting their productivity is essential for targeted livestock development planning. This study uses a descriptive survey design, collecting data from 210 farming households in Argungu, Jega, and Birnin Kebbi local government areas through structured household surveys. Livestock species held, herd sizes, management systems, health care access, annual offtake rates, and estimated livestock income contributions are documented. Economic value analysis quantifies livestock contribution to total household income. Findings reveal that cattle ownership is concentrated in larger households (average 12 head per owner), while sheep, goats, and poultry are more widely distributed across all wealth strata. Livestock income accounts for 38 to 58 percent of total household income across sampled households, with cattle income being the largest contributor for wealthier households. Poultry provides the highest annual income return relative to the capital invested. Livestock health service access is very limited, with 82 percent of farmers relying exclusively on traditional treatments. The study concludes that livestock is a critical economic pillar for Kebbi State farming households. It recommends targeted community-based animal health worker programmes to improve health service access in underserved communities.

Keywords: livestock rearing, economic contribution, Kebbi State, household income, farming systems.