ECONOMICS OF COWPEA MARKETING AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN LERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study analysed cowpea marketing among small-scale farmers in Lere LGA of Kaduna State. A total of one hundred and thirteen (113) cowpea farmers constituted the population for the study. The objectives was to determine the degree of market concentration, marketing margins, and efficiency, and identify factors influencing marketing efficiency in the study area. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that the mean age of cowpea marketers was 33 years, with about 75% being male and 25% female. Household sizes ranged from 1–5 members for 65% of marketers and 6–10 members for 35%. Most marketers (75%) had 1–10 years of marketing experience. The average selling price of cowpea across markets was ₦745 per kg. Net return to investment was ₦5.09, implying that for every ₦100 invested in cowpea marketing, a net return of ₦5.09 was realized. Marketing efficiencies of the four markets were positive, indicating that cowpea marketing in the study area is economically efficient. Marital status of marketers was positive and significant at the 1% probability level. Access to marketing agents was positive and significant at the 10% level, while selling price was also significant at 10% and positively related to marketing efficiency, meaning efficiency improves as prices increase. The coefficient of determination (R²) was 0.67, while adjusted R² was 0.58, explaining 58% of variability in marketing efficiency. Inadequate transportation facilities ranked as the most severe constraint (40%). The study recommended that government and non-governmental agencies provide microcredit facilities to support marketers and encourage wider participation in cowpea marketing.