Özet:

The study was carried out to analyse cassava production, prospects and challenges in Irepodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. It aimed to examine the determinant variables and determine the profitability level of cassava enterprises. The study was based on primary data obtained with the aid of structured questionnaire from 100 cassava farmers drawn through multi-stage sampling techniques from the study area. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, OLS regression model and gross margin analysis. The result of the OLS regression estimates revealed that farm size, cost of fertilizer application, herbicides, family and hired labour were significant variable affecting cassava production in the study area. The study found that the average gross margin per hectare for cassava production in the study area was ₦24,749.28, that is, €55.37 with a gross benefit ratio of 1.4. This shows that for every ₦1 invested in the business of cassava production, there is a corresponding profit of ₦1.4 kobo. The major challenges identified in cassava enterprise are huge transportation cost, lack of improved cassava cultivars, and lack of market linkages. The study concluded despite the problem encountered in the study area, cassava production is profitable and can serve as a panacea for economic improvement of households. Therefore, the study recommends that basic inputs such as improved cassava varieties and fertilizer should be made available at affordable price. Also, infrastructural facilities such as good road network and improve marketing channels should be provided in order to sustain current cassava production rate and economic gains from the production.

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