ABSTRACT

The study focused on the economics of goat production in Obingwa Local Government Area. The study investigated the costs, returns including constraints and profitability that are associated with goat production in the study area and other socio-econornic features of producers. Data were collected with the use of structured questionnaire and oral interviews. The respondents were purposively selected amongst four communities in the area, because goat rearing is restricted to a section of the population. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine the factors that influence goat production in the study area. The linear production function was chosen as the lead equation. This is determined by its general level of significance, high F-ration and R2when compared with other functional forms. Results showed that farm size, cost of labour used were the major factors influencing goat production in the study area. However, cost of labour and capital were utilized efficiently. Since goat is a profitable enterprise and a source of animal protein, Animal scientists should find a way of packaging feeds in such a way that they can be obtained conveniently and in bulk to enable producers to increase their herd size. Extensive system of goat production should be banned in communities, especially during the farming period because of the destructive nature of goats to crops. Government should provide extension agents and animal scientist who will enlighten and educate the farmers on modern livestock strategy. Farmers should learn to keep adequate and accurate farm records, this will help researchers to arrive at dependable solutions.