After the Nigerian government hinted at a possible ban on fish importation, my inbox began to fill with a familiar question from would-be fish farmers in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt: “Can I start a catfish farm now and do it for less?”
It’s a timely concern. With import restrictions looming and demand for locally raised fish climbing, 2025 could be a turning point for Nigeria’s aquaculture industry. But while the opportunity is real, the path to profitability depends on where you set up, how lean your operations are, and whether you can balance cost-cutting with quality production.
A Market on the Edge of Change
Nigeria needs an estimated 3.2 million metric tonnes of fish annually. Yet local production meets barely 30% of that demand. The rest comes from imports mainly mackerel, sardines, and tilapia; worth over ₦500 billion annually.
A potential import ban would create an immediate supply gap, and catfish is perfectly positioned to fill it. Already a staple in Nigerian homes and restaurants, catfish is prized for its fast growth, high protein content, and adaptability to diverse farming systems.
The numbers tell the story:
In 2024, farm-gate prices for market-sized catfish averaged ₦1,600–₦1,800/kg in Lagos, ₦1,800–₦2,000/kg in Abuja, and ₦1,500–₦1,700/kg in Port Harcourt.
Feed costs rose by 12% year-on-year due to inflation and foreign exchange volatility.
Demand spikes during festive seasons have pushed prices up by as much as 25% in certain markets.
For aspiring farmers, this means a ready market, but also a careful balancing act between startup costs and potential returns.
Why Costs Vary Between Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt
The cost of starting a catfish farm is influenced by several location-specific factors:
1. Land and Space Availability
Lagos: Limited space pushes land prices and rent up, especially in peri-urban areas close to major markets.
Abuja: Land is available but often comes with bureaucratic costs for permits and water access.
Port Harcourt: Land is relatively cheaper in rural areas, but flooding risk must be considered.
2. Water Source and Quality
Catfish need clean, oxygen-rich water. Boreholes are common in Abuja, while Lagos often relies on municipal supply or surface water.
In Port Harcourt, rain-fed ponds are possible but may require treatment during heavy rains.
3. Feed Availability
Lagos benefits from proximity to major feed manufacturers.
Abuja farmers often face transport surcharges.
Port Harcourt feed costs are moderate but can fluctuate with fuel prices.
4. Market Proximity
Shorter distances to wholesale buyers and restaurants reduce transport costs and spoilage risk.
Estimated 2025 Startup Costs by City
Below is a breakdown for a small-scale farm (1,000 fingerlings capacity), excluding land purchase costs but including pond setup, water system, feed for 6 months, and basic equipment:
Why Lagos Costs Less Than Abuja (and Why Port Harcourt is Cheapest)
Lagos wins on feed and market access but loses on space and rent.
Abuja faces the highest setup costs due to higher labor and water drilling expenses.
Port Harcourt benefits from cheaper construction and water sources but may need additional flood-proofing investment.
Potential Earnings After 6 Months
With 1,000 stocked fingerlings, a 90% survival rate would yield about 900 fish, each weighing ~1.5kg after 6 months.
Total harvest weight: 1,350 kg
Average price: ₦1,800/kg (Lagos), ₦2,000/kg (Abuja), ₦1,700/kg (Port Harcourt)
Gross revenue: ₦2.43M (Lagos), ₦2.7M (Abuja), ₦2.29M (Port Harcourt)
How to Cut Costs Without Cutting Corners
1. Start Small, Expand Gradually – Avoid overinvesting before you’ve tested your market.
2. Use Tarpaulin Ponds – Cheaper and movable, ideal for rented land.
3. Bulk-Buy Feed – Saves money if you have secure storage.
4. Partner for Water Access – Share borehole costs with nearby farms.
Must Know
Q. How much does it cost to start a catfish farm in Lagos in 2025?
A. About ₦2.25 million for a 1,000-fish capacity setup, excluding land purchase.
Q. Is catfish farming profitable in Abuja?
A. Yes. Despite higher startup costs (~₦2.49M), Abuja’s higher selling prices can yield strong returns.
Q. Which Nigerian city is cheapest for starting a catfish farm?
A. Port Harcourt, with estimated startup costs around ₦2.12M.
Q. Can I start a catfish farm with less than ₦1 million?
A. Yes, but you’ll likely need to scale down to ~300–400 fish and use low-cost pond options like tarpaulin tanks.
The Bottom Line
2025 could be a defining year for Nigerian aquaculture. If the fish import ban materializes, demand for locally farmed catfish will surge and those who prepare now will be ready to cash in. Whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, the key isn’t just starting, it’s starting smart.
Thinking of starting your own farm? Visit our website for free resources, training guides, and supplier contacts tailored to your city.
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