In this article, we want to tell you about the breeds of goat in Nigeria. Farming and animal rearing is developing in the country and the production of meat and milk is becoming more popular among farmers.
Nigeria boasts a rich variety of goat breeds, each uniquely adapted to its environment. Goat farming has become increasingly important in the country, not only for subsistence but also as a profitable venture for many farmers. The significance of goats in Nigeria stretches beyond their role as livestock; they are integral to cultural traditions and provide essential resources such as meat, milk, and leather.
Goats are incredibly versatile animals that can thrive in various climates and terrains, making them ideal for the diverse landscapes found across Nigeria. The country is home to both local and exotic goat breeds, which offer different advantages and benefits for farmers. Understanding these breeds and their characteristics is essential for anyone looking to engage in goat farming or simply learn more about these remarkable animals.
Main characteristics of Goats in Nigeria
In such countries as Nigeria, goats have special characteristics that make it possible for them to survive in the environment. The main classification divides goats into two categories: Local breeds and Exotic breeds.
Let’s check local types of goats in Nigeria, there are four main breeds which are most adapted for the Nigerian environment.
Local Breeds of Goats:
- Sahelian Goats
Photo: roysfarm.com
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This breed is characterized by a short fine coat that could be black, red, white or spotted. They can have medium or large body size. The goats have short ears possessed horizontally, the horns drop down. Both male and female have horns, these animals well adapted for long-distance trekking, and can survive in desert areas of the country.
The goats have long legs that make them adapted for nomadic life. The weight of a mature goat is 25 - 30 kg. This breed of goats is mostly used for meat. They are also called “Ogufe” especially in the South-west of the country.
- Maradi or Red Sokoto
Photo: nairaland.com
This breed is spread mostly in the Sokoto area. This type is considered one of the most well-defined among African breeds. The color of the skin coat is red, and it is very valued for leather production. There are also sub-breeds of such goats, they are called Kano brown and Boronu white. The goats have horns and horizontally positioned short ears. Mature animals have 20-30 kg of weight.
- African Dwarf Goats
Photo: roysfarm.com
This is a different breed of goat in Nigeria. Such a type of goats can be found in forest areas of the country. The animal has a small size of body and short legs. Such characteristics allow them to move easily through thick vegetation of the forest. The colors can be different from black to white or gray or even multicolored. The height of a mature goat is 40 or 50 cm, and the weight is from 18 to 20 kg. The breed is resistant to trypanosome and very hardy.
- Pygmy Goats
Photo: roysfarm.com
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This is another small-size type of goat. The weight of an adult person is around 39 kg. They are short and slightly chubby. The time of life is ten years on average. They are characterized as very smart animals and can be great pets. They can easily adapt to different climate conditions.
Exotic breeds of goat in Nigeria
- Saanen
Photo: agromaripa.com
This breed is widespread all over the world but originates from Switzerland. The animal has a white coat and large size. Mature goats obtain the weight of about 75 kg. They are also able to produce 3 liters of milk a day.
- Anglo-Nubian
Photo: goatgenetics.com
This breed came from England; it can have different colors, but white and brown dominate. The weight of mature breed can be from 60 to 70 kg. This breed is very adaptable to a tropical climate.
- Toggenburg
Photo: goatsavvy.com
Another breed from Switzerland, it is also widespread and known all over the world. They have chocolate or brown coats. The weight of mature animals is usually from 50 to 65 kg. They usually produce 2-2.5 liters of milk a day.
- Alpine
Photo: thatsfarming.com
The goats originate from the Alp region; they are known for a variety of colors. The weight is usually from 60 to 65 kg. Farmers usually use them for both milk and meat production.
- Jamnapari
Photo: expert-market.com
This breed originated from India, the animals have large lopped ears and most often have black or brown colors. An adult animal can reach 75 kg of weight. Such goats are adapted for tropics and have a good potential for meat and milk production.
- Boer goat
Photo: expert-market.com
This breed has white color usually with brown neck and head. The weight of the adult goat can reach even 130 kg, and farmers kept them mostly for meat production. They are horned and have lop ears.
Nigerian farmers have been raising cattle for many centuries, and a big experience in this kind of agriculture has made it possible to breed new breeds of animals and increase productivity.
Commercial and domestic goat farming plays a vital role in the development of agriculture and the entire economic system in the country. The northern part of Nigeria is quite actively involved in commercial goat farming. Goat meat has great demand, which is why there is a great opportunity to develop goat farming business.
The list of benefits of such a business is huge. These are the types of goats in Nigeria, as you see the choice is big enough, we hope that this information will be helpful for your farming activity.
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Source: Legit.ng
