ASSESSMENT OF THE PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY OF IFAD-VCDP BENEFICIARIES UNDER TUNGA-KAWO IRRIGATION SCHEME IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examines the productivity and profitability of IFAD beneficiaries under Tunga-kawo irrigation scheme Niger State. Multi-stage sampling techniques were used to select 118 beneficiaries and 119 non-beneficiaries on which primary data were elicited with the aid of a structured questionnaire complemented with interview schedule. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (such as frequency, percentage and mean), Farm budget technique and total factor productivity. The study revealed that the average age of rice farmers in the study area was 38 with average farming experiences of 24 years. The beneficiaries had at least secondary education while the non-beneficiaries had at least primary education. The cost and return revealed that rice production in the study area was productive with a net farm income of N1,783,543.22 and N550,788 for both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries respectively although the beneficiaries demonstrated higher levels of productivity compared to non-beneficiaries. Also, the mean TFP index for beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries were 8.82 and 3.40 respectively. The study recommended that to further enhance rice productivity in the study area, efforts should be made to expand access to improved seeds, irrigation facilities, and extension services not only for beneficiaries but also for non-beneficiaries. This can be achieved through government programs and partnerships with agricultural organizations.