Nigeria had a goat population of about 88 million in 2022, making it the second highest in the world behind China. However, a huge part of this livestock’s nutritional value is being lost because the country focuses mainly on its meat.
In one survey, researchers found that only 14.7% of their sample consumed goat milk and its products. Although the sample was from rural households in the Niger Valley of Benin, it is representative of Nigeria’s traditional diets since most of the goat population is also in the Northern region with identitical eating habits.
It is not the same in other parts of the world as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey consume more goat milk than cow milk.
Once the value of goats extends beyond meat, it starts to become clearer why raising them can be a lucrative industry. Many breeds are valuable for their meat and milk while there are others that produce high-quality fiber.
In this article, yu will see some of the most expensive goat breeds, including those that just stand out because of their rarity, unique characteristics, or historical significance.
Five most expensive goat breeds
1. Golden Guernsey: The rarest goat breed
Originating from the Channel Islands, Golden Guernsey goats are renowned for their exceptional milk production. Their milk is used to produce premium-grade cheese and butter. Since there are only about 1,500 of them in the world, and they are listed as endangered-maintained by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), it makes them highly sought-after in Europe and beyond.
With an estimated price range of $5,000 (₦7.5 million) to $10,000 (₦14 million) per goat, Golden Guernseys are among the most expensive goat breeds in the world. In July 2024, King Charles III granted these goats a royal title.
2. Pygmy Goats: Miniature marvels
Pygmy goats are prized for their unique appearance and docile nature. These miniature goats, which originally hail from Africa, are popular as pets and show animals, particularly in the United States, Europe, and Australia. Despite their small size, Pygmy goats can command a price of $1,000 (₦1.5 million) to $3,000 (₦4.5 million) per goat.
These breeds are also considered endagered because of their dwindling population. They produce high amounts of antibodies which makes them valuable in scientific research like immunology.
3. Angora Goats: Cashmere and mohair producers
Angora goats are native to Turkey and are known for their luxurious wool, which is used to make cashmere and mohair. The high demand for these fibers has driven up the price of Angora goats. They can command prices between $1,500 (₦2.4 million) to $3,000 (₦4.9 million) per animal.
Their meat is also eaten in households that raise them is described as succulent and tender. One publication mentioned that this breed of goat produced the most sought after meat in the twentieth century at one point.
4. Nubian Goats: The dairy queens
Nubian goats are celebrated for their high-quality milk, which is used to produce goat cheese. Although they have roots in Egypt, their popularity in the United States, Canada, and Australia has pushed their price up to between $1,000 (₦1.6 million) and $2,500 (₦4 million) per goat.
5. Jamnapari Goats: Meat and milk masters
Originating from India, Jamnapari goats are a dual-purpose breed, producing both meat and milk in large quantities. They have the capacity to produce 2 kg to 2.5 kg of milk per day. Their versatility has made them popular in India, Indonesia and Pakistan, where they are traded for an estimated price of $500 (₦819,000) to $1,000 (₦1.6 million) per goat.
Affordable goat breeds in Nigeria
While these top global breeds command significant prices, Nigeria is home to several common goat species that offer a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality.
One such breed is the Red Sokoto, which are known for their hardiness, adaptability, and high milk production. As their name implies, they are native to the Northern state of Sokoto. They are also excellent for meat production. With an estimated price range of $100 (₦164,000) to $500 (₦819,000) per goat, these goats are significantly more affordable than the top global breeds.
Meantime, other more common Nigerian goat breeds like the West African Dwarf (WAD) Goats and its Nigerian variant can sell for less than $70 (₦100,000). These breeds offer a valuable and sustainable option for Nigerian consumers and farmers can equally easily raise them, combining affordability with high productivity and adaptability to the local climate.
Overall, goat farming has emerged as a profitable business venture in Nigeria and Africa, driven by the rising demand for animal protein. With the increasing popularity of goat meat, milk, and skins, there are numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs and farmers to succeed in this industry.
