AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

DETERMINANTS OF NET INCOME OF CATFISH VALUE CHAIN ACTORS IN SOUTH-SOUTH, NIGERIA

Author:  Nnamuko, I. A, B. O, Njoku, M. E, Simonyan, J. B and Amusa, T. A, Udokure, U. J

Abstract
The study examined the determinants of net income of catfish value chain actors in South-South, Nigeria. Specifically, the study determined the cost, returns, and marketing efficiency of catfish value chain actors and estimated the determinants of net income of catfish value chain actors. The study population comprised all catfish value chain actors like producers, processors, and marketers in the South-South States (Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers) of Nigeria. The sample size of this study was 180 respondents (60= producers, processors= 60, and marketers= 60). A multistage sampling technique was used to select the respondents. Data were analyzed using the costs and returns formula and multiple regression models. Results showed that catfish production, processing, and marketing are lucrative businesses with higher potential for net income. The net income of the value chain actors was influenced by household size, initial capital, and location. However, market charges determined the net income of catfish fish marketers, processing costs determined the net income of processors, and stock size determined the net income of catfish producers. The study recommended that government and non-governmental organizations through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Microfinance banks should provide microcredit for catfish producers and marketers to boost their starting capital, enhancing their ability to invest in better equipment and practices for higher net income.