Economic Analysis of Maize (Zea Mays) Production among Smallholder Farmers in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria
1Okonkwo-Emegha, Kate, 2Oyita Governor Ekene and 3Adejoh Sunday
1Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria 2Department of Agricultural Economics, Dennis Osadebay University Asaba Delta State, Nigeria
3Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria
Email:k.okonkwo-emegha@unizik.edu.ng. Tel.: 08035922432.
ABSTRACT
The study on the economic analysis of Maize production among smallholder farmers in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, examined the socio-economic characteristics of maize producers and estimated the cost and returns of maize production. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a random sample of 100 maize producers. The study employed various analytical techniques, including descriptive statistics, and budgetary analysis. The socio-economic characteristics of maize producers revealed a male-dominated sector (67.0% male, 33.0% female), with farmers predominantly aged 41 and above, married, and possessing tertiary education. Farming experience averaged 11.60 years, and cooperative association membership was prevalent (73.0%). The majority had small farm sizes (51.0% with 0-0.50 hectares). The estimation of costs and returns demonstrated a positive financial outcome, with a gross margin of ₦2,621,923.66 and a net return of ₦2,533,977.99, indicating profitability in maize production. The study recommended to address challenges is to focus on improving access to capital for smallholder farmers.
Keywords: Economic, Analysis, Small Holder, Farmers, Production
CITE AS:Okonkwo-Emegha Kate, Oyita Governor Ekene and Adejoh Sunday (2025). Economic Analysis of Maize (Zea Mays) Production among Smallholder Farmers in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES 4(1):121-126. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJEP/2025/41121126