Factors Influencing Socio-Economic Status of Shea Butter Processors in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

The study examines the factors influencing the socio-economic status of shea butter processors in North Central Nigeria. Hence, the study investigated factors influencing their SES. A multi-stage sampling procedure, combining purposive and random methods, was used to select 368 respondents. Data were collected through structured interviews and analysed using percentages, frequencies, means, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, and linear regression. Processors had a mean age of 40.50 ± 12.17 years, and 54.6% were non-members of associations. Average annual production was 2382.94 ± 1906.45 kg, with a mean income of ₦455,025.54 ± 421,464.29. Increased income ( =1.448) was the main benefit of processing. Overall, 67.1% of processors had moderate SES. Significant relationships existed between SES and age (r = 0.218), household size (r = 0.121), association membership (χ² = 57.59), quantity produced (r = 0.189), income (r = 0.178) and years of experience (r = 0.129). Association membership (β = 0.275) and benefits derived (β = 0.285) positively influenced SES.  Agricultural development agencies in the zone should organise training programmes and help facilitate the formation of processors' associations to enhance productivity and income.