Tilapia fish farming in floating water cages is one of the fastest-growing aquaculture systems in Nigeria, particularly around the Lagos Lagoon. The lagoon provides stable water exchange, ideal temperature ranges (26–30°C), and natural plankton that supports fish growth and reduces feed costs.
The Case Study is based on 1 standard floating cage unit with partition, stocked with 1,000 tilapia juveniles, grown to market size over 5–6 months. Tilapia has high market demand in Lagos due to its mild taste, affordability, and suitability for grilling, frying, and processing.
Increase local tilapia supply and reduce dependence on imported frozen tilapia.
Generate steady income for participants within one production cycle.
Utilize Lagos Lagoon sustainably through low-impact cage aquaculture.
Produce premium-quality live tilapia for Lagos markets, restaurants, and processors.
The project uses:
- 1 x floating HDPE or wooden-frame cage.
- Fully covered with 40–60 mm knotless netting.
- Positioned in a low-current, secure area of Lagos Lagoon at Epe.
Advantages of cage culture:
- No need for borehole or pond construction
- Natural water exchange improves fish health
- Lower mortality when managed properly
- Scalable by adding more cages
Stocking:
- 1,000 tilapia juveniles
- Initial weight: 10–20g
- Expected final weight: 350–600 g after 5–6 months
Feeding:
- Floating extruded feed
- Feed size progression: 0.8-1.5 mm → 2mm →3 mm → 4 mm → 6 mm →9mm
- Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): 1.3 – 1.6 (tilapia is efficient)
Routine Activities:
- Daily feeding
- Net cleaning
- Fish sampling (every 2 weeks)
- Cage inspection and repairs
- Predation control (birds, reptiles)
Target Markets:
- Makoko fish traders.
- Ikoyi, Lekki, and Ajah restaurants.
- Local grill spots (“point & kill” joints).
- Fresh fish retailers in Bariga, Oworonshoki, and Obalende.
- Home delivery via WhatsApp and Instagram.
Marketing Actions:
- Sell live fish directly from the lagoon.
- Build partnerships with joints offering “Point & Kill Tilapia”.
- Pre-sell 40–60% of stock before harvest.
- Offer discounts for bulk purchases.
1. Water Pollution / Low Oxygen
Risk:
Lagoon pollution, runoff, or sudden oxygen drops.
Mitigation:
Place cage in low-traffic, aerated area.
Monitor dissolved oxygen (especially early morning).
Avoid overstocking.
2. Net Damage / Fish Escape
Risk:
Birds, crabs, sharp debris, boat movement.
Mitigation:
Use HDPE frames and high-quality knotless netting.
Inspect nets daily.
Install predator nets on top.
3. Predators
Risk:
Birds, reptiles, large fish.
Mitigation:
Use top netting and secure side nets.
Keep cage fully enclosed.
4. Raining Season
Risk:
Storms / Rough Water /High Water Level.
Mitigation:
Anchor cage with strong mooring ropes.
Choose protected lagoon zones.
Use wave-resistant cage design.
5. Feed Price Volatility
Risk:
Feed Price Increase.
Mitigation:
Buy feed in bulk.
Use natural plankton advantage in lagoon water.
Optimize feeding schedules.
6. Theft / Vandalism
Risk:
Especially at night.
Mitigation:
Recruit reliable night watch/security.
Place cages in community-monitored areas.
Use padlocked feed store and tamper-proof cage designs.