ASSESSMENT OF URBAN POULTRY FARMING AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS IN KANO METROPOLIS, KANO STATE

Purpose: Urban poultry farming is a popular and lucrative enterprise undertaken by many households in Nigeria, but it poses environmental challenges when improperly managed. The aim of this paper is to assess the environmental implications of urban poultry farming in Nasarawa and Kumbotso Local Government Areas of Kano Metropolis and to identify strategies for promoting sustainable practices.

Design/methodology/approach: The study employed cluster and purposive sampling techniques to select a sample of 231 urban poultry farming households, with an additional 75 non-poultry households included to capture community perceptions. Data on farming practices, waste management, and environmental conditions were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages.

Findings: The study revealed that location of poultry farms, air quality, noise, and methods of poultry waste disposal constitute environmental challenges to varying degrees. While some households effectively utilised poultry waste for economic and agricultural purposes, there is no clear regulatory framework guiding urban poultry farming in the study area.

Research limitations/implications: Limitations include the focus on only two LGAs and the reliance on self-reported data from households. The study contributes to knowledge by highlighting the environmental risks and management practices of urban poultry farming in Kano metropolis.

Practical implications: To promote sustainable urban poultry farming, policies and regulations should be introduced to guide farm location, physical design, sanitation, and waste management practices.

Originality/value: The study provides a detailed assessment of the environmental effects of urban poultry farming and emphasizes the need for policy intervention to ensure sustainable practices in rapidly urbanising areas of Kano.