AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development
ISSN(Online): 2736-0040 ISSN(Print): 2695-1975
ISSN(Online): 2736-0040 ISSN(Print): 2695-1975
Abstract
In Nigeria, fluted pumpkin is widely cultivated for its palatable and nutritious leaves which is a good
source of protein, mineral salts, sugars, vitamins, and essential oils that increase man’s resistance to
disease. It production also constitutes a reliable source of livelihood activity among resource poor
farmers. Based on these enormous advantages of leafy vegetable production, this study examined factors
affecting the total factor productivity among fluted pumpkin farmers in Oruk Anam Local Government
Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 100 upland fluted pumpkin farmers
using well-structured questionnaire and was complemented by personal interview and observation to
ensure accuracy and consistency of data collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and
Ordinary Least Squares regression analysis. The finding showed that, total factor productivity among
respondent averaged at 60.10 units, implying that most vegetable farms in the study are efficient in
resource management. The empirical results for determinants of total factor productivity indicate that
education, social capital formation, farming experience, agricultural extension visit, farm income, gender
and farm size have positive relationships with the total factor productivity of fluted pumpkin farmers in
the study area. Alternatively, household size has negative coefficient and was statistically significant at
conventional probability level. To increase TFP among vegetable farmers in the State, the study
recommends expanded adult education programme and formation of social groups among vegetable
farmers. Government should improve extension services and supports farm input subsidies to vegetable
farmers in the region.