Share the post "”How to Start Snail Farming in Nigeria: A Complete Guide for Young Farmers”"
Snail farming in Nigeria, also known as heliciculture, is one of the most profitable and easy-to-manage agricultural businesses today. It requires low capital, little space, and brings in high returns. For a young farmer looking to start a sustainable agribusiness, snail farming is an excellent choice.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to start snail farming in Nigeria successfully — from choosing the right species to managing your farm and making profits.
Why Snail Farming Is a Good Business in Nigeria
Snail farming is growing fast in Nigeria because of these key reasons:
- High demand: Snails are a healthy source of protein and are in high demand in local and international markets.
- Low startup cost: You can start with small capital and expand gradually.
- Easy management: Snails require less attention compared to poultry or fish farming.
- Environmental benefits: Snails thrive in a natural, eco-friendly environment.
Step 1: Choose the Right Snail Species
Not all snails are suitable for farming. In Nigeria, the Achatina achatina, Achatina marginata, and Achatina fulica are the most common and profitable species.
- Achatina achatina (Giant Ghana snail): Known for fast growth and large size.
- Achatina marginata: Adapts well to Nigerian weather.
- Achatina fulica: Easier to find and breed quickly.
Choose one or two species to start with based on your local environment and market demand.
Step 2: Prepare Your Snail House (Snailery)
Snails love cool, moist, and shaded environments. You can build a snail pen using:
- Wooden boxes
- Concrete pens
- Old tyres
- Clay pots
- Bamboo cages
Ensure the pen has good ventilation, shade, and a soil base that retains moisture. Avoid direct sunlight because snails dry out easily.
Step 3: Get Healthy Breeding Stock
Buy your snail breeders from trusted snail farms or agricultural research centers. Select snails that are:
- Mature and active at night
- Free from injuries or shell damage
- Large and healthy in appearance
Start small — around 50 to 100 snails — and increase as you gain experience.
Step 4: Feeding and Watering
Snails eat fruits, vegetables, and leaves. Common snail feeds include:
- Pawpaw leaves
- Waterleaf
- Cabbage
- Banana leaves
- Cassava peels
- Ground maize and bran
Provide clean water in shallow containers. Always remove leftover food to prevent pests.
Step 5: Breeding and Hatching
Snails lay eggs in the soil, especially during the rainy season. After laying, cover the eggs lightly with soil.
Hatching usually takes 21 to 40 days depending on temperature and humidity.
Keep young snails in a separate, protected pen until they mature.
Step 6: Snail Farm Maintenance
To keep your farm healthy:
- Maintain moisture in the soil using water sprinklers or wet leaves.
- Remove pests like ants and beetles.
- Clean the pen regularly.
- Keep snails in shaded areas to avoid excessive heat.
Step 7: Harvesting and Selling
Snails are ready for harvest after 6 to 12 months, depending on the species.
You can sell:
- Fresh snails in local markets or restaurants
- Processed snails (frozen or dried) for export or supermarkets
Snail shells can also be sold for calcium production or art purposes — nothing goes to waste.
Step 8: Profit and Marketing
Market your snails through:
- Local markets and eateries
- Online platforms (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp)
- Hotels and supermarkets
- Export companies
With good management, you can make ₦300,000 to ₦1 million or more annually from a medium-scale snail farm.
Conclusion
Starting snail farming in Nigeria is one of the best agribusiness opportunities for young farmers today. It’s simple, profitable, and environmentally friendly.
Begin small, learn consistently, and grow your business step by step. With patience and care, your snail farm can become a sustainable source of income.
