Best Location to Site a Commercial Poultry Farm in Ogun State: A Complete Guide Based on Real Experience

When I first started training farmers across Nigeria eight years ago, one young man from Abeokuta called me. He had just lost over 2,000 birds in three months. His farm was beside a noisy highway. The stress alone killed his chickens faster than any disease could.

That single phone call taught me something important. Location is everything in poultry farming.

Finding the right location to site a commercial poultry farm in Ogun State can make or break your business. I have seen farmers succeed with small capital because they chose well. I have also watched people waste millions on wrong locations.

This guide comes from real experience. I have trained over 400 farmers in Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State. Many of them now run successful farms in Ogun State and beyond. Their stories, mistakes, and wins are what you will read here today.

Why Location Matters More Than You Think

Your farm location affects everything. It touches your profit, your bird health, and your daily stress levels.

Think about transportation costs. One farmer I trained in 2019 built his farm in a remote area of Odeda. He thought the cheap land was a blessing. But moving feed became his nightmare. He spent ₦45,000 extra every month just on transport.

The birds also suffered. Stress from poor road conditions during movement affected their growth. His feed conversion ratio was terrible compared to similar farms in better locations.

Location to site a commercial poultry farm also determines your access to water. Chickens drink twice as much water as they eat. Without reliable water supply, you are finished before you start.

Let me share what matters most when choosing your farm site in Ogun State.

Understanding Ogun State’s Geography for Poultry Farming

Ogun State sits in southwestern Nigeria. It borders Lagos State, making it attractive for commercial poultry farmers. The state has diverse terrain and climate zones.

The southern parts like Ijebu-Ode have more rainfall. The northern areas like Yewa are drier and warmer. Each zone has unique advantages for chicken farming.

Most successful commercial farms I know cluster around specific local governments. These areas offer the right mix of accessibility, climate, and infrastructure.

According to the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ogun State contributes significantly to Nigeria’s poultry production. The state’s proximity to Lagos creates a ready market for eggs and broiler chickens.

Key Climate Factors in Ogun State

Temperature and humidity directly affect chicken health. Ogun State’s average temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C throughout the year.

The rainy season runs from April to October. This period brings challenges with moisture control in poultry houses. Excess humidity can trigger respiratory diseases.

One farmer I trained in Sagamu learned this the hard way. His farm was in a low-lying area that flooded every rainy season. He lost birds to sudden cold stress when water entered his pens.

The dry season from November to March is generally better for poultry farming. But you must prepare for heat stress during the hottest months.

Top Local Government Areas for Commercial Poultry Farming in Ogun State

Not all areas in Ogun State work well for commercial poultry. Based on feedback from farmers I have trained and my site visits, certain LGAs stand out.

1. Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area

This area is excellent for commercial poultry farming. It sits along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, giving you quick access to major markets.

The terrain is relatively flat. Land prices are reasonable compared to areas closer to Lagos. Water availability is good in most parts.

I visited a 10,000-bird capacity farm in Mowe in 2022. The farmer sources his feed from mills in Ibadan and delivers eggs to Lagos within two hours. His logistics costs are minimal.

Key advantages:

• Good road network
• Proximity to Lagos market
• Available land at fair prices
• Access to veterinary services
• Reliable power from some areas

2. Odeda Local Government Area

Odeda offers cheaper land options for large-scale operations. The area is more rural, which means less competition for space.

However, you need to consider the distance from major feed mills. Transportation becomes a significant cost factor if you are running more than 5,000 birds.

A client I trained started with 3,000 layers in Odeda in 2021. She now has 8,000 birds and still makes profit. Her secret is buying feed in bulk and storing properly.

3. Remo North Local Government Area

This area around Ilara-Remo provides good balance. You get reasonable land prices and decent road access.

The climate is suitable for both layers and broilers. Water table is high, making borehole drilling easier and cheaper.

One farmer told me he drilled his borehole at 40 meters depth. Compare this to some parts of northern Nigeria where you drill beyond 100 meters.

4. Ewekoro Local Government Area

Ewekoro is home to cement factories, which means good road maintenance. The infrastructure attracts poultry farmers looking for reliable access routes.

Land is available, though prices vary by proximity to the main roads. The area has several veterinary drug stores, which is helpful for commercial farmers.

5. Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area

Very close to Lagos with excellent market access. However, land prices are higher here compared to other LGAs.

This location works best if you are targeting the premium Lagos market. Your ability to deliver fresh products quickly gives you an advantage.

Many integrated poultry operations are located in Ota. These companies run hatcheries, feed mills, and processing plants in the same area.

Critical Factors When Choosing Your Exact Farm Location

Now that you know the promising LGAs, let us talk about specific factors. These apply whether you are in Obafemi-Owode or Odeda.

Access to Quality Water Supply

Water is non-negotiable. Chickens need clean, constant water supply to survive and produce.

Check the water table before buying land. Hire a borehole driller to do a simple survey. This costs between ₦15,000 to ₦30,000 but saves you from future headaches.

In 2020, I visited a struggling farm in Ifo. The farmer’s borehole water was brownish and had high iron content. His birds looked weak despite good feeding. We tested the water and found it unsuitable.

He had to install water treatment systems, adding ₦180,000 to his setup costs. All because he did not test water before building.

Water quality checklist:

• Clear and odorless
• pH between 6.5 and 8.5
• Low iron and mineral content
• Free from harmful bacteria
• Constant supply even in dry season

Road Accessibility Throughout the Year

Your farm must be accessible every single day. Feed delivery cannot stop because of bad roads.

During my training sessions, I always tell farmers: “If a truck cannot reach you in the rainy season, find another location.”

Some areas in Ogun State have roads that become impassable during heavy rains. This cuts you off from feed mills, markets, and veterinary services.

Visit your potential site during rainy season if possible. Drive there yourself. Check if the road has potholes that will damage your vehicle repeatedly.

One farmer in Ijebu-Ode told me he spends ₦25,000 monthly on vehicle maintenance because of bad farm access roads. That is ₦300,000 yearly on something you can avoid with better location planning.

Distance from Residential Areas

You need some distance from homes and schools. Poultry farming creates noise and odor that neighbors will complain about.

The Ogun State government recommends at least 500 meters from residential buildings for commercial farms. Check with your local government for specific regulations.

In 2018, a farmer I know in Ijebu-Ode faced serious community problems. His farm was too close to a primary school. Parents complained about the smell. He eventually relocated at huge loss.

But do not go too remote either. You need people around for security and labor. Find the balance between isolation and accessibility.

Proximity to Feed Mills and Input Suppliers

Feed represents 70% of your production cost. Every kilometer you travel to buy feed adds to your expense.

Ogun State has several feed mills. Major ones are along the Lagos-Ibadan corridor. Companies like CHI Farms, Amo Farm, and others have distribution centers in the state.

Calculate your distance from at least two feed suppliers. Competition between suppliers gives you negotiating power on prices.

A smart farmer in Mowe told me he sources from three different mills. When one increases prices, he switches to another. This flexibility comes from his strategic location.

Security Considerations

Farm theft is real in Nigeria. You will lose birds, equipment, and even feed if security is poor.

Choose areas with active community vigilance. Local government areas with police posts nearby are better. Some farmers join community security networks.

I trained one farmer who lost 500 point-of-lay pullets in a single night. Thieves came with trucks and emptied two pens. His farm was in an isolated area with no neighbors nearby.

After that incident, he installed lights, alarms, and hired two security men. These costs could have been reduced with better initial location choice.

Power Supply and Alternative Energy Options

Electricity matters more than most people think. You need power for lighting, water pumping, and cooling systems (for large operations).

Do not depend on NEPA alone. Plan for generators or solar power from day one.

One successful farm I visited in Sagamu runs almost entirely on solar power. The initial investment was high—around ₦4,000,000 for a 5kVA system. But they now save over ₦40,000 monthly on fuel costs.

Areas with relatively stable power supply reduce your generator fuel expenses. Some parts of Ota and Mowe have better electricity compared to more remote areas.

Practical Steps to Evaluate a Potential Farm Site

Here is exactly how I teach farmers to assess land before buying or leasing.

Step 1: Visit During Different Times

Go to the site at least three times. Visit in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Each time reveals different things.

Morning visits show you noise levels from nearby activities. Afternoon visits expose heat and sun angles. Evening visits reveal security situations and community activities.

Step 2: Talk to Neighboring Farmers

If there are existing farms nearby, that is usually a good sign. It means the location works for poultry.

Stop and talk to these farmers. Ask about their challenges. Most farmers will share honest information, especially if you approach respectfully.

I always encourage my trainees to buy drinks or lunch for neighboring farmers during such visits. People open up when you show genuine interest in learning from them.

Step 3: Check Soil and Drainage

Walk around the land when it is dry. Look for signs of water logging or flooding. Low-lying areas collect water during rains.

Your poultry house must be on well-drained ground. Standing water breeds mosquitoes and creates unhealthy conditions for birds.

Hire someone with land survey knowledge if you are unsure. This costs around ₦30,000 to ₦50,000 but prevents expensive mistakes.

Step 4: Verify Land Documentation

This is crucial in Nigeria. Many farmers have lost money to land disputes.

Work with a lawyer to verify the land title. Check for government acquisition orders or community claims. Some areas in Ogun State have land disputes that can shut down your operation.

A farmer in Ewekoro once called me crying. After building his pens, he discovered the land belonged to a family in dispute. He lost everything—over ₦3 million investment.

Step 5: Test Water Before Building

Drill a test borehole before constructing anything. Test the water quality at a laboratory.

In Ogun State, several labs do water testing. It costs between ₦5,000 to ₦15,000. This small expense can save you from major problems later.

One farmer I trained in Ado-Odo discovered his water had high salt content. He had already built half his pens. He had to relocate the entire project.

Comparing Key Locations: A Data-Driven Approach

Let me give you practical comparison based on real data from farmers I have worked with. This table shows average costs and conditions across popular locations.

Note: These figures are based on 2024/2025 data from actual farmers and may vary by specific location within each LGA.

The table shows clear trade-offs. Cheaper land often comes with higher logistics costs. Expensive locations near Lagos offer better infrastructure but eat into your capital.

Your choice depends on your scale and budget. A farmer starting with 2,000 birds has different needs from someone planning 20,000 birds.

Real Success Stories from Strategic Location Choices

Let me share three real examples of farmers who got their location decisions right.

Case Study 1: Biodun’s Layer Farm in Mowe

Biodun attended my training program in 2019. She had ₦2.5 million to start a layer farm.

She bought half a plot of land in Mowe for ₦650,000. The location was 5 minutes from the expressway. Water borehole cost her ₦280,000 at 45 meters depth.

Within 18 months, her 3,000 birds were producing at 82% peak. She delivers eggs to three different markets in Lagos. Her transport cost is just ₦8,000 per delivery trip.

Today, she has expanded to 5,000 birds. She told me the location choice was her best decision. Quick access to markets means she sells eggs fresh, which commands premium prices.

Case Study 2: Tunde’s Broiler Farm in Odeda

Tunde took a different approach. He wanted large scale production with lower overhead costs.

He leased 2 acres in Odeda for ₦200,000 per year. Land was cheap but far from Lagos. He runs 8,000 broilers per cycle.

His strategy was bulk production for local markets in Abeokuta and Ibadan rather than Lagos. This reduces his transport expenses significantly.

He partnered with feed mill for bulk deliveries every two weeks. This saves him ₦120,000 per cycle compared to smaller purchases.

Tunde makes it work because he matched his business model to his location advantages.

Case Study 3: Mrs. Akinyemi’s Integrated Farm in Remo North

Mrs. Akinyemi runs both layers and broilers in Remo North. She started after retiring from civil service in 2020.

Her location gives her the best of both worlds. She is close enough to Lagos for egg deliveries but far enough for affordable land.

She bought one full plot for ₦850,000. Today, she has 4,000 layers and runs 3,000 broilers every three months.

Her farm employs 4 full-time workers from the local community. This goodwill has protected her from security issues. The community sees her farm as their own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Location

In eight years of training, I have seen farmers repeat the same mistakes. Learn from their errors and save your money.

Mistake 1: Buying Land Without Physical Inspection

Never buy land based only on photos or someone’s word. Always visit multiple times.

A trainee once bought land in Ijebu-Ode without visiting. When he finally went there, he found the land was on a steep slope. Building costs doubled because of the terrain.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Community Relations

Your relationship with the local community matters deeply. Some farmers act like outsiders and face hostility.

Introduce yourself to community leaders when you arrive. Explain your plans. Ask for their blessing. This traditional courtesy prevents many future problems.

One farmer in Ewekoro told me how community youth attacked his farm because he never greeted the Baale. They saw him as proud and arrogant. A simple courtesy visit would have prevented everything.

Mistake 3: Underestimating Transportation Costs

Many farmers focus only on land price. They forget that cheap land in remote areas means expensive logistics.

Do proper calculations. Add up monthly feed transport, egg delivery costs, and travel expenses. Sometimes expensive land in better locations costs less in the long run.

Mistake 4: Building on Borrowed or Uncertain Land

Some farmers build on family land without proper documentation. This creates problems when family members dispute ownership.

Get proper documentation even if the land is free. Sign agreements with witnesses. This protects your investment.

Mistake 5: Choosing Location Based Only on Price

The cheapest option is rarely the best option in poultry farming. Consider total cost of operation, not just land cost.

One farmer bought very cheap land in a remote part of Odeda. He saved ₦400,000 on land. But he has spent over ₦600,000 extra in three years on transport and logistics.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

You must follow Ogun State regulations when siting your poultry farm. Ignoring these can lead to closure or fines.

Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) Requirements

OGEPA regulates waste management and environmental impact of farms. Commercial poultry farms must register and follow waste disposal guidelines.

Your location must have space for proper waste management. Plan for manure storage and disposal from day one.

Some LGAs are stricter than others. Check with the local government agriculture department before finalizing your location.

Minimum Distance Requirements

Most local governments require commercial farms to maintain certain distances from:

• Residential buildings (minimum 500 meters)
• Schools and hospitals (minimum 1 kilometer)
• Water bodies and streams (minimum 100 meters)
• Major roads (setbacks vary by LGA)

These requirements protect both the community and your farm operations. A farmer in Ifo was forced to relocate because he built too close to a stream. The state said he was polluting the water source.

Obtaining Necessary Permits

Before starting construction, get the right permits. This includes:

• Land use permit from local government
• Environmental impact assessment (for large farms over 10,000 birds)
• Business registration with Corporate Affairs Commission
• Tax identification number

These documents protect you from future legal problems. They also help when seeking bank loans or government support.

According to the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), proper documentation increases your chances of accessing agricultural support programs.

How to Start Small and Scale Based on Location

You do not need perfect location from day one. Start where you can afford and upgrade as you grow.

The Progressive Approach

Many successful farmers started small in less ideal locations. As profits came in, they relocated to better sites.

This approach reduces initial risk. You learn the business with smaller capital before making big location investments.

I started my own training farm in Oyi Local Government with just 500 birds. The location was not ideal, but it was affordable. Two years later, I expanded to a better site after understanding the business better.

When to Consider Relocation

Consider moving to a better location when:

• Your current site limits expansion
• Transportation costs exceed 15% of revenue
• You face persistent community or security issues
• Water supply becomes unreliable
• You have consistent profit for 3+ cycles

Relocation is expensive but sometimes necessary for growth. Plan it carefully and move during off-production periods to minimize losses.

Technology and Location Selection

Modern tools can help you choose better locations for your poultry farm in Ogun State.

Using Google Maps for Site Assessment

Google Maps satellite view shows terrain, road networks, and surrounding development. Use it to study potential sites before physical visits.

Check for proximity to markets, feed mills, and residential areas. Measure distances accurately using the measuring tool.

Weather Apps and Climate Data

Track weather patterns for different areas in Ogun State. Some locations have microclimate advantages.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) provides detailed weather data. Use this information when planning your farm structures and ventilation.

Connecting with Other Farmers Online

Join online poultry farming groups focused on Ogun State. Facebook groups and WhatsApp communities share valuable location insights.

I run a WhatsApp group for my trainees where we discuss location challenges and solutions. Farmers help each other with real-time information about different areas.

Financial Planning Based on Location Choice

Your location affects your entire financial structure. Budget accordingly.

Startup Capital Requirements by Location

More accessible locations near Lagos require higher initial capital but offer faster returns. Remote locations need lower startup capital but come with higher operating costs.

Here is a rough breakdown for a 2,000-layer farm:

High-Cost Location (Ota/Mowe area):

• Land: ₦1,000,000
• Construction: ₦800,000
• Birds and equipment: ₦1,500,000
• Working capital: ₦500,000
• Total: ₦3,800,000

Moderate-Cost Location (Remo North/Ewekoro):

• Land: ₦600,000
• Construction: ₦700,000
• Birds and equipment: ₦1,500,000
• Working capital: ₦500,000
• Total: ₦3,300,000

Lower-Cost Location (Odeda/Remote areas):

• Land: ₦400,000
• Construction: ₦650,000
• Birds and equipment: ₦1,500,000
• Working capital: ₦600,000
• Total: ₦3,150,000

Notice that working capital is higher for remote locations. You need more cash flow because of longer delivery times and bulk purchase requirements.

Return on Investment by Location

Better locations often give faster ROI despite higher initial costs. Quick market access means fresher products and better prices.

From my experience training farmers, those in Mowe and Ota areas typically break even within 18-24 months. Farmers in remote areas may take 24-36 months.

However, this varies greatly based on management skills. A good farmer in Odeda can outperform a poor farmer in Ota.

Future-Proofing Your Location Choice

Think beyond today when choosing your farm location. Consider future developments in Ogun State.

Upcoming Infrastructure Projects

The Lagos-Ibadan expressway expansion is ongoing. Areas along this corridor will see increased development and land value appreciation.

The proposed Ogun State cargo airport in Ilisan-Remo could transform that area into a commercial hub. Early investors in nearby locations may benefit greatly.

Check with Ogun State Ministry of Works for planned road projects. Building near future road improvements can boost your farm’s long-term value.

Urban Expansion Considerations

Lagos is expanding into Ogun State rapidly. Areas that are semi-rural today may be urban in 10 years.

This brings both opportunities and challenges. Land values increase, but residential encroachment may force relocation.

Consider whether you want short-term farming for profit and exit, or long-term operation. Your strategy affects which location type suits you best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum land size needed for a commercial poultry farm in Ogun State?

For a small commercial operation of 2,000 to 3,000 birds, half a plot (approximately 300 square meters) is sufficient. This gives you space for pens, feed storage, and working areas.

However, I recommend buying at least a full plot if you can afford it. This allows for future expansion without relocating. Larger operations of 10,000 birds or more need multiple plots or even acres of land.

Remember to factor in space for waste management and biosecurity measures when calculating your land needs.

How far should my poultry farm be from the nearest feed mill in Ogun State?

Ideally, your farm should be within 50 kilometers of your primary feed supplier. This distance keeps transportation costs manageable while ensuring regular feed delivery.

Beyond 70 kilometers, transport costs start eating significantly into your profits. I have trained farmers in Odeda who spend ₦50,000 monthly on feed transportation alone because they are over 80 kilometers from mills. If you choose a remote location, plan to buy and store feed in bulk to reduce delivery frequency and costs.

Is it better to buy or lease land for poultry farming in Ogun State?

This depends on your capital and long-term plans. Buying land is better if you have sufficient capital and plan to farm for many years. Land in Ogun State appreciates in value, so ownership is an investment.

Leasing works if you have limited capital or want to test the location before committing.

Many successful farmers started by leasing for 2 to 3 years, then bought land after proving their business model. Whatever you choose, ensure proper documentation to protect your investment.

Which areas in Ogun State have the best water supply for poultry farming?

Areas in Remo North, Ado-Odo/Ota, and parts of Obafemi-Owode generally have good water tables. You can drill boreholes at 40 to 60 meters depth in these areas.

The southern parts of Ogun State closer to the coast have higher water tables than the northern areas. However, water quality varies even within the same LGA.

Always test water before building your farm. I have seen farms in supposedly good water areas struggle because their specific site had iron-contaminated water. Spend money on proper water testing—it is worth every naira.

How do I handle community relations when setting up my farm in a new area?

Start by visiting the Baale or community head to introduce yourself and explain your plans.

This traditional courtesy is crucial in Yoruba culture. Ask for permission to operate in the area even if you legally own the land. Offer to employ youth from the community where possible—this builds goodwill and improves security.

Attend community meetings when invited and contribute to local development projects within your means.

One farmer I trained in Ewekoro sponsors a community sports competition annually. This costs him ₦50,000 but has prevented numerous conflicts and theft incidents.

What are the legal requirements for starting a commercial poultry farm in Ogun State?

You need to register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

Visit your local government agriculture department for agricultural business registration. Farms with over 5,000 birds may need environmental impact assessment clearance from OGEPA.

You should also register with the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) Ogun State chapter for networking and advocacy benefits.

Keep all land documentation proper—survey plans, receipts, and agreements. These requirements seem tedious but protect you from future legal problems and help access government support programs.

How much should I budget for transportation costs based on different locations?

Transportation costs vary significantly by location. In Mowe or Ota, expect to spend ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 per trip for feed delivery and ₦8,000 to ₦15,000 per egg delivery to Lagos markets. In remote areas like parts of Odeda, these costs can double or triple.

For a 5,000-layer farm in Mowe, monthly transport costs average ₦40,000 to ₦60,000. The same farm in a remote location might spend ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 monthly.

Calculate these costs carefully when comparing land prices. Cheap land is not truly cheap if transport costs wipe out your savings.

Can I start poultry farming in Ogun State with limited capital, and which location is best?

Yes, you can start with as little as ₦800,000 if you choose carefully. Remote areas in Odeda or Yewa offer cheaper land—you can lease for ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 yearly instead of buying.

Start with 500 to 1,000 birds to minimize risk while learning. Build simple but functional housing using local materials to cut costs.

However, ensure your budget includes working capital for at least 3 months of operations. Many small-scale farmers fail not because of their location, but because they exhaust capital before birds start producing.

I always tell my trainees: start small, but start properly. Better to run 500 birds successfully than lose money on 2,000 birds due to poor planning.

Conclusion: Making Your Final Location Decision

Choosing the right location to site a commercial poultry farm in Ogun State is one of the most important business decisions you will make. There is no perfect location—only the location that fits your specific situation, budget, and goals.

If you have strong capital and want quick market access, areas like Mowe, Ota, and parts of Remo North offer excellent options. You pay more upfront but benefit from lower logistics costs and faster returns.

If you are starting with limited capital and can manage higher transport costs, Odeda and other remote areas provide affordable entry points. Focus on bulk operations and local markets to make this model work.

Whatever location you choose, remember these key principles from my eight years of experience:

Visit multiple times before committing. Talk to existing farmers in the area. Test water quality properly. Verify land documentation thoroughly. Build good relationships with the community. Plan for the total cost of operation, not just land price.

The farmer who called me about his failed farm on the noisy highway eventually succeeded. He relocated to a quieter area in Mowe, applied better management practices, and now runs a profitable 8,000-bird operation. His story proves that mistakes can be corrected, but they are expensive to fix.

Learn from others’ experiences. Make informed decisions. Start where you can afford, but plan to scale to better locations as your business grows.

I have seen hundreds of farmers succeed across Ogun State using these principles. With proper location selection and good management, you can build a thriving poultry business that provides income for years to come.

Remember, in poultry farming, your location is not just where you build pens. It is the foundation of your entire business success.

Pius Emeka is a poultry farming trainer based in Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State, with 8 years of experience training over 400 farmers across Nigeria.

References:

1. National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) – Agricultural Production Data
2. National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) – https://nalda.gov.ng/
3. Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) – https://www.nimet.gov.ng/