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Dec 31, 2025Keywords:
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Main Article Content
Costs, Returns, and Constraints in Sweet Potato Production: Case Study from Ebonyi LGA, Nigeria
Abstract
Sweet potato is an important food security crop due to its ability to thrive under marginal conditions. This study examined the economics of sweet potato production in the study area with the objectives of describing farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics, estimating production costs and returns, and identifying major constraints. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents. Results showed that most farmers were aged 31–40 years, had formal education, with an average household size of seven persons, and a mean farming experience of 18 years. The analysis revealed total cost and revenue of ₦524,600 and ₦1,510,000, respectively, yielding a gross margin of ₦1,021,000, net farm income of ₦985, and a benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 2.88 per ₦1 invested, indicating high profitability. The study concludes that sweet potato production is a profitable enterprise in the area, but its potential is hindered by constraints, primarily limited access to credit and high input costs. The study, therefore, recommends motivating extension agents and providing subsidized inputs to enhance productivity and sustainability.
