ECONOMICS AND CONSTRAINTS OF YAM PRODUCTION IN GBOKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study analyzed the economics and production constraints of yam farming in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, against the backdrop of declining productivity despite the crop’s importance to food security and rural livelihoods. A multistage random sampling technique was used in selecting 120 yam farmers from the study area. Data were collected from through the administration of structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a gross margin analysis. The results indicated that yam production is economically viable in the study area, with an average gross margin of ₦63,253.31 per production cycle, confirming its profitability among smallholder farmers. However, the findings also revealed significant constraints limiting optimal production, notably the incidence of pests and diseases (mean = 4.23), limited access to credit facilities (mean = 4.20), and inadequate extension services (mean = 4.09). These constraints adversely affect productivity, input use efficiency, and farmers’ capacity to scale up production. The study concludes that yam production in the study area is profitable enterprise, its full potential is undermined by institutional, financial, and biological challenges. It is therefore recommended that policies prioritize the timely and affordable provision of agrochemicals, improved access to agricultural credit, and strengthened extension service delivery to enhance productivity, profitability, and the sustainability of yam production in the region.