The 12th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Malacological Society (NMS), held from August 12–15, 2024, at Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, explored the theme “Snail Production and Utilisation for Health and Wealth Creation.” This gathering of experts and stakeholders highlighted the nutritional, medicinal, and economic potential of snail farming in Nigeria, alongside the challenges faced by practitioners.

Health and Nutritional Benefits of Snails

Snail meat is increasingly recognized as a superfood, rich in high-quality protein, iron, calcium, and Omega-3 fatty acids while being low in fat and cholesterol. These attributes make it ideal for managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. In traditional and modern medicine, snail mucus is highly valued for its therapeutic properties, including wound healing, anti-inflammatory effects, and skincare applications. These health benefits are paving the way for snails to play a crucial role in improving public health in Nigeria.

Economic Opportunities in Snail Farming

Snail farming, or heliculture, offers significant opportunities for wealth creation. With minimal startup costs, low space requirements, and versatile applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, snail farming is accessible to a broad range of entrepreneurs. The conference highlighted that snails are not only a sustainable source of animal protein but also a valuable export commodity. As local and international demand for snail products grows, snail farming has the potential to generate substantial income for rural and urban communities alike.

Addressing Challenges in Snail Farming

Despite its potential, snail farming in Nigeria faces challenges, including habitat destruction, climate change, and limited access to modern farming techniques. The NMS emphasized the need for research into climate-resilient snail farming practices, species optimization, and effective disease management. Enhanced training programs for farmers and the development of supportive policies were also identified as critical to scaling the industry sustainably.

The Future of Snail Farming

The conference concluded with a call to action for increased collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and farmers to unlock the full potential of snail farming. The integration of snail farming into Nigeria’s agricultural development strategy could enhance food security, create jobs, and promote economic diversification.

Access the Latest Research

For more detailed insights, research articles, and proceedings from the conference, visit the Journal of Molluscan Research at https://journalofmolluscanresearch.com. Stay informed about the latest advancements in snail farming and its applications for health, wealth, and sustainability.