Economics Of Cocoyam Production In Ikwuano Lga Of Abia State

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the economics of cocoyam production in lkwuano Local Government area of Abia state. The broad objective of this study was to carry out economic analysis in cocoyam production in the study area. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data froni 80-cocoyam farmers in the study area selected from the four (4) clans of Ikwuano. The primary data was obtained from the questionnaire mentioned and secondary data was sourced from texts, journals and other research works. Multiple regression analysis, descriptive statistical tools such as percentage, table and frequencies and Gross margin analysis and net farm income analysis were used to analysis the data collected. Result showed that the farm size, levels of laboui inputs, fertilizer inputs and planting materials (corn/comels ) used in cocoyam production have positive and significant impact on determinants at 1% and 5% respectively. As well as educational level, years of experiences and family size of the farmers. Results also showed that 56.25% of the farmers were females while 43.75% were male. Again ii was observed that cocoyam production is profitable iii the study area with net farm income of N159, 7935 per farm, though aflocatively inefficient. The major constraints faced by the farmers include bad roads, lack of fertilizer, pest and disease and lack of fund among others. Finally, the government should help to rebuild the roads in the rural areas and also encourage and train extension agents so as to furnish the farmers with adequate information that will improve productivity.