AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

FACTORS INFLUENCING CASSAVA PRODUCTION AMONG FARM HOUSEHOLDS IN ORUK ANAM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Author:  Offor, Offiong Samuel and Ukpong, Akwaowo Clifford

Abstract
The study focused on factors that influence Cassava production in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The study assessed the socio economic profiles of cassava farmers in Oruk Anam Local government area, examined the factors that influence cassava production among food crop farming households and ascertained the productivity levels of cassava farmers in the study area. The study employed descriptive statistics and regression analysis to analyze the data. The results show that,majority of the respondents (71.4%) involved in cassava production in the study area were male and only 28.6% were female, the mean age stood at 48 years. Furthermore, results showed 68.6% were married. The mean years of farming experience was 23 years. The household size distribution of cassava farmers in the study area revealed that majority (65.7%) had 6 to 10 members while 11.4% of the total respondents had family sizes ranging from 1-5 and the average household size of 9 persons was obtained for all respondents in the study area. All independent variables had a positive relationship with cassava output except age, fertilizer and planting materials which had a negative relationship with output. Age had a negative and insignificant relationship with cassava production, educational background of the farmers was also insignificant but had a positive coefficient of 54.4. Household size had a positive relationship and was significant at 5%. Farm size also had a positive relationship and was significant at 10%. Farming experience also showed a significant and positive relationship with cassava output. Access to credit had a positive and significant at 10%. Farmers should be encouraged in cassava production by making single digit loans available to them. Also, input acquisition centers should be located close to the farmers where they can easily access planting materials and other agricultural inputs.