During the 2020 pandemic that left many people uncertain about their livelihoods, Nigerian entrepreneur Becky Jacob turned an unusual idea into a thriving business. As shared in a video by Nigerian YouTuber Chidera Nwafor, Becky pioneered a maggot farming enterprise that now generates millions of naira. While most farmers focus on traditional livestock or crops, Becky ventured into breeding black soldier fly (BSF) maggots – a move that has proven to be both innovative and highly profitable.
Why Maggot Farming?
Becky explained her inspiration to Chidera: “Protein is the major constituent in livestock feed, and maggot farming offers an affordable and sustainable solution.” This type of farming is ideal for Nigeria’s agricultural needs, as maggots provide a high-protein, nutrient-rich feed for livestock like chickens, pigs, and rabbits. Becky emphasized that the demand for maggots in Nigeria is enormous, particularly among feed millers and livestock farmers. Her venture not only meets this demand but also contributes to job creation and sustainability.
The Maggot Life Cycle
The process of maggot farming is fast and efficient. According to Becky, a maggot reaches its ideal stage for harvesting within 10 to 12 days. The entire life cycle of a black soldier fly spans 35 to 45 days, depending on environmental conditions and the type of organic waste used as a substrate. “It’s a recycling business,” she said, highlighting how every stage of the process yields valuable products. From eggs to larvae and eventually adult flies, each step has a role in sustaining the cycle.
From Eggs to Livestock Feed
Becky detailed the process: after the flies lay their eggs, the eggs are incubated and hatch within three to four days. The larvae, or maggots, are then fed organic waste, including food scraps, brewery waste, and fruit peels. This sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also produces protein-packed maggots that are harvested at their nutrient-rich peak. At this stage, maggots can either be sold or used directly as feed.
Uses Beyond Livestock
In a surprising revelation, Becky noted that maggots are also edible for humans. She explained that maggots naturally eliminate bacteria during decomposition, making them clean and safe for consumption. While this might seem unconventional to some, it underscores the versatility and sustainability of maggot farming. For livestock, feeding maggots results in healthier animals and reduced feed costs.
Profitability in Maggot Farming
The business is not only sustainable but also highly profitable. “A kilogram of maggots sells for 1,000 naira,” Becky stated. Other by-products, such as organic fertilizer (fras), pupae, and even dead flies, also generate income. These materials are valuable for enhancing soil fertility or serving as supplementary feed. Becky’s emphasis on consistency and dedication reveals the secret behind her success: staying focused on the process and maintaining quality.
The Insectarium and Larvae Breeding
Becky introduced viewers to her insectarium – a transparent structure where flies mate and lay eggs. This setup mimics natural conditions and ensures optimal egg production. The larvae are then transferred to the “larium,” where they are nurtured in a controlled environment. The transparent insectarium design allows sunlight to stimulate the flies, while the larium, being opaque, ensures the larvae thrive without direct light.
Challenges in BSF Farming
Despite its many benefits, maggot farming isn’t without challenges. Becky pointed out that harvesting maggots and separating them from the organic substrate can be labor-intensive, especially without specialized equipment. Sourcing organic waste consistently can also pose difficulties, particularly for farmers operating on a smaller scale.
A Growing Market
The demand for maggots in Nigeria is significant, and Becky’s farm is at the forefront of meeting it. She regularly trains others in BSF farming, conducting both in-person and online sessions. Each week, 50 to 70 students learn from her expertise, gaining skills that can empower them to start their own ventures. Becky offers indefinite mentorship through platforms like WhatsApp, ensuring her trainees succeed.
A Sustainable Solution
One of Becky’s students, Mr. Emmanuel, highlighted the broader impact of maggot farming. With rising costs in aquaculture and livestock farming, maggot farming offers an affordable alternative. “Black soldier fly larvae help make farming more sustainable by drastically reducing feed costs,” he explained. This circular economy model ensures minimal waste and maximized efficiency.
Everything is Money
As Becky aptly summarized, “Everything here is money.” From the larvae to the pupae and even the dead flies, every part of the maggot farming process has value. This approach exemplifies how innovation and sustainability can turn an overlooked resource into a goldmine. Becky’s story, as presented by Chidera Nwafor, is a testament to the power of creativity and determination in agriculture.
A Fascinating Tale
What struck me most about Becky’s story is how she turned something most people would shy away from into a multimillion-naira business. It’s fascinating to see how a seemingly simple idea – breeding maggots – can have such a profound impact on food security, waste management, and employment. Becky’s resilience and willingness to explore uncharted territory serve as a lesson for entrepreneurs everywhere: sometimes the biggest opportunities lie in the least expected places.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.