Resources-use efficiency of maize production in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This paper examined resource – use efficiency in maize production in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used in selecting 80 farmers from two districts in Mokwa Local Government Area. Descriptive statistics, production function and farm budgeting analysis, gross margin were used for the analysis of data. The result revealed that maize production in the study area was profitable with an estimated gross margin of N11,297.53 per hectare. Quantity of fertilizer (X1), expenses on chemical (X4) and labour inputs (X3) were the significant variables influencing maize output in the study area and they were under- utilized. This could probably be explained by the high cost of inputs and also lack of information on innovations. However, more awareness should be created through seminars and extension services to encourage farmers, to engage in maize production due to its enormous potentials.