Analysis of Farm Productivity in Integrated Tree Cropping Systems of Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

After 1971 seasons, Cocoa and other tree crops production have declined substantially in recent times owing to several agricultural complex constraints which have affected the production of the farmers and the sustainability of agricultural production. Productivity is the main determinant of sustainable agricultural production. Thus, this study investigates the farm productivity in integrated tree cropping system in Southwestern Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to elicit information from 250 farmers. Data were analysed with the use of descriptive statistics, total factor productivity and multiple regression model. Descriptive statistics revealed that the farmers have organized social groups with average age of 50.18(± 13.50) years in Lagbedu, 51.52(± 11.72) years in Iwara, 52.58(± 13.75) years in Osunwoyin, and 55.12(± 15.56) years in Akindele. Farmers’ experience in farming was 26.48(± 13.4) years in Lagbedu, 29.54(± 15.79) years in Akindele, 29.9(± 14.41) years in Iwara, and 30.3(± 16.15) years in Osunwoyin. An average household size was 9.04(± 4.38) persons in Osunwoyin, 9.26(± 6.33) in Lagbedu, 10.12(± 5.21) persons in Iwara, and 10.34(± 5.97) persons in Akindele. Majority of the household cultivate cocoa in the study area. Majority of the respondents identified inadequate funds, land issues, non-availability of agro-inputs, pests and diseases infestation as major constraint to production. The average productivity level was 0.61 kg/₦ in the study area. The determinants of farm productivity in the study area were farm size (p<0.1), improved varieties (p<0.01), hired labour (p<0.01), fertilizers (p<0.01) and extension visit (p<0.05). In accordance with the findings of the study, intensive teaching programmes on the use and advantage of improved seed varieties and fertilizer by virile extension services should be encouraged as well as providing input as form of credit.