Resource-Use Efficiency Of Small Scale Maize Farmers In Lavun Local Government, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined resource-use efficiencies of maize production in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. Maize is the most important staple food of great socio-economic importance in Nigeria, however price fluctuation, disease and pest, poor storage facilities and efficiency of resource utilization have been identified as reasons for low maize production in Nigeria. An improvement in the understanding of the levels of resource-use efficiency and its relationship with a host of farm level factors can greatly aid policy makers in creating efficiency, enhancing policies as well as in judging the efficiency of present and past reforms. The primary data used for the study were obtained using structured questionnaires administered to 100 randomly selected farmers. Descriptive statistics, gross margin and production functions analysis and resource-use efficiencies were used for the analysis of data. The result showed that maize production is profitable in the area. Farm size and seed input were significant factors influencing output level of maize in the area. Estimated efficiency-ratio (r) shows that the resources used were not efficiently utilized. The study recommended that farm inputs especially improved seeds and agrochemicals for the controlling of pest and disease should be supplied to farmers at the right time and at cost that is within their reach. Also good roads must be constructed to aid the easy movement of their farm products to the point of consumption