Resource Use Efficiency in Cassava Production in South East Nigeria
U. C. Ibekwe
Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
J. S. Orebiyi
Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
A. Henri-Ukoha *
Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
E. C. Okorji
Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
E. C. Nwagbo
Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
N. M. Chidiebere-Mark
Department of Agricultural Economics, Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The study investigated resource use efficiency and productivity in cassava production in Owerri west local government area of Imo state, Southeast Nigeria. The multi–stage sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents. A total of 56 respondents were randomly selected and interviewed with the aid of questionnaire. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistical tools and ordinary least square multiple regression model. Results of the analysis showed that most of the farmers are small scale farmers and who are young and well experienced by the number of years of farming. The results on productivity showed that such inputs as fertilizer, labour cost, capital and other inputs were over-utilized. Farmers should reduce the rate of input use for efficiency to be enhanced.
Keywords: Resource use, efficiency, productivity, cassava farmers