Profitability potential of rainfed lowland rice production in some selected Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the profit potential of rainfed lowland rice production system in Sokoto state, Nigeria. Using a multistage random sampling technique, 300 farmers were randomly selected from six purposively selected Local Government Areas of the State. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and farm budgeting model. The costs and returns analysis revealed a gross margin of N40,887.50 per hectare and a net farm income of N38,288.50 per hectare. The Rate of Return on Investment (RRI) showed that each rainfed rice farmer earned N34.30 as profit for every N100 invested in rainfed lowland rice production. The major problems identified were scarcity and high cost of inputs, pests and diseases, insufficient capital and seasonal floods. The study recommends timely provision of inputs, credit facilities and efficient extension services to farmers.