ANALYSIS OF MAIZE VALUE CHAIN IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the maize value chain in Ondo State, Nigeria. It identified the various actors in the maize value chain, their products and functions, the value added at each stage of the value chain and the overall value chain. One hundred and seventy nine (179) respondents were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Interview schedule and structured questionnaire were used to obtain primary data. Data were collected on cost and returns on procurement of input supply, production, processing, marketing and consumption. Also data on information delivery was collected and this was analyzed using functional and budgetary Analysis. Result from the functional analysis with other socio-economic characteristics, showed that there were five major actors or stages in the maize value chain in Ondo State, Nigeria. They are input suppliers, farmers, processors, marketers and consumers. Budget analysis revealed gross margin per month of N8,3620,643.78k for input manufacturers, N8,956,893.87k for agricultural development programme (ADP), N1,375,766.67k for the input supply Agency (AISA), N2,841,62346 for private agro dealers, N177,104.39k for gross margin of farmers, N246,119.30k for gross margin of processors of maize flour, N51,332.25k for gross margin of Boiled maize, N45,627.98k for Roasted maize processors, N11,69,203.58k for livestock feed millers, N255,939.27 for gross margin of markers. It can be concluded that maize farmers produce or cultivates at a subsistence level based on one factor and others. Storage facilities, pest and disease control is not adequate which can reduce post-harvest losses. Market information should be adequate through marketing or price Board which will prevent consumers not to be worsen-off. Based on the study, government should tar rural communities’ roads leadings to different farms for easy motorable of farm produce. Both government and input suppliers should increase and continue training of farmers in the use of farm inputs and implements through seminar workshop, training and visit, posters, handbill. Also processors of maize products should not be left out from training especially in the handling of their milling machineries (technical know-how). Government should give soft loan to maize input suppliers, farmers, processors and marketers at low interest rate to improve maize tarming