ANALYSIS OF DEMAND FOR BROILER CHICKEN AMONG HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS STAFF IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN COUNCIL, BORNO STATE

This study analyzed the demand for broiler chicken among staff of selected higher learning institutions in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State, Nigeria. The objectives were to examine the socio-economic characteristics of respondents, determine the level of demand for broiler chicken, identify factors influencing demand, and assess challenges affecting its consumption. A structured questionnaire was administered to 150 respondents selected from three institutions: Ramat Polytechnic, University of Maiduguri, and Kashim Ibrahim University. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used for data analysis. Results revealed that all respondents were aware of broiler chicken, with 92% consuming it regularly. Weekly consumption was the most common at 53.3%. Major determinants of demand included cultural acceptability (96%), ease of preparation (83%), and affordability (72%). The major challenges identified were high cost (26.7%), health concerns (21.3%), and inadequate storage facilities (20.7%). The study concludes that broiler chicken constitutes an important protein source among institutional staff, though cost and storage constraints affect consumption patterns. It is recommended that poultry producers receive input subsidies, storage infrastructure be improved, and nutrition education strengthened to sustain and increase demand.