Determinants of marketable surplus of maize in Osun State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study examines the marketable surplus of maize in Osun State, Nigeria. The study stemmed from the need to ensure food security in the country. Primary data obtained from 120 respondents selected through a three-stage sampling technique were used for the study. The data collected were analysed with descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings revealed that the major occupation of the farmer, use of modern technology and maize output were significant at p < 0.1, p < 0.5 and p < 0.01 respectively and positively affected marketable surplus of maize in the study area while cost of transportation was significant at p < 0.1 and negatively affected it. These findings suggest that market surplus of maize can be enhanced if appropriate measures are put in place. Therefore, the study calls for provision of improved agricultural technologies to farmers, implementation of measures to reduce transport cost as well as formulation of sound policies to encourage the farming as main occupation.