AN EVALUATION OF CASSAVA MARKETING IN THE AGRICULTURAL ZONE ONE (1) OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study focused on the evaluation of cassava marketing in the ADP Zone 1 of Ondo State, Nigeria. It examined the socio-economic characteristics of the cassava marketers in the study area, analysed the structure, conduct and performance of the cassava market and identified the main marketing channels for cassava in the study area. Multi-stage sampling technique was employed in selecting eighty (80) respondents and structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. Methods of data analyses include descriptive statistics, Concentration ratio, Gross Margin analysis and the Gini coefficient. The results of analysis of socio-economic characteristics of respondents in the study area showed that married people dominated the cassava market, with 87.50% of the respondents being married while the rest are either single or divorced. The study also revealed that marketing of cassava is mostly undertaken by males (55%). Most of them are literate, with at least 62.5% having secondary school education. Cassava marketing is a profitable enterprise in the study area, with average marketing margin of 35% per marketer. The market is profitable and operationally efficient, with profitability and efficiency ratios of 0.50 and 1.51 respectively. Majority of the respondents (97.5%) do not belong to cassava marketing association. The problems faced by the marketers include high transportation costs and poor pricing from buyers. More processing companies should be established in the study so as to enable marketers receive better prices; marketing cooperatives should be formed likewise. Construction and rehabilitation of good feeder roads should be done for easier and cheaper transportation of cassava tubers