COST-RETURNS ANALYSIS OF VEGETABLE PRODUCTION (TOMATO ENTERPRISE) IN MOKWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIACOST-RETURNS ANALYSIS OF VEGETABLE PRODUCTION (TOMATO ENTERPRISE) IN MOKWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study was on the cost and returns analysis of Vegetable (Tomato) production in Mokwa LGA of Niger State. A Multi-stage Random sampling Technique was used in selecting respondents for the study. Primary data was collected with the aid of well structured questionnaires and interview schedule. Data were analyzed using Descriptive statistics, Gross margin Analysis. The results of the analysis shows that most of the respondents (97%) were males who mostly had only primary education, but were in their ages of active labour force. Similarly the results of the analysis also shows that the significant determinants of output of vegetable production in the study area were gender; years of formal education; household size; farm size; Quantity of seeds planted; other variable inputs like fertilizer patricides etc. Also, the gross margin accruing to the farmer for his labour and management was N26,467.00 per annum, indicating that the enterprise is profitable. It was however recommended that the provision of infrastructure and extension education will go a long way in increasing vegetable production in the area.