Multinomial logit analysis of choice of enterprise among maize/sorghum based cropping systems in Niger State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study examined the choice of enterprise amongst farmers involved in maize/sorghum based cropping systems in Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select a total of 360 maize/sorghum based farming household heads sampled from nine (9) Local Government Areas across the three agricultural zones of the state. Data used for this study were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, perception index using a 5-point Likert scale, a multinomial logit model and the farm budgeting technique were used to analyze the data. Results of the socio-economic characteristics revealed that a typical maize/sorghum based farmer was about 46 years old, married with nine family members and had attained at least primary level of education with 24 years of experience in farming. Average farm size cultivated was 2.36 hectares, planted with several crops in diverse combinations with less than 10% of these planted with maize and sorghum as sole crops. Derivation of more income from mixed cropping and the desire to produce most of the food consumed by the household served as incentives for the extensive practice and preference for mixed cropping systems across the state. Number of plots at the farmers’ disposal, income derived from the preferred chosen enterprise, farming experience, distance of farmland from farmer’s home and membership of association or co-operative all had significant influence on the farmers’ choice of enterprise. High cost of fertilizers, poor extension and farm advisory services, high cost of credit and improved seeds, incidence of pests and diseases and inadequate storage facilities were identified in the order of severity as constraints faced by maize/sorghum based crop farmers in Niger State. The study therefore recommended increased research into mixed cropping systems, the strengthening of effective extension programmes and services, farmer based organizations like associations and cooperatives, as well as a holistic system of inputs supply and distribution to ensure that farmers get the complete package of relevant production inputs at the appropriate times and at affordable prices in order to boost food production