Profitability Analysis of “Ugu” (Fluted Pumpkin) Production among Small-Scale Farmers in Owerri Agricultural Zone, Imo State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study analyzed the profitability of fluted pumpkin (“Ugu”) production among small-scale farmers in the Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the socio-economic characteristics of fluted pumpkin farmers, estimated the costs and returns associated with production, determined the factors influencing profitability, and identified the major constraints affecting profitable production. Primary data were collected from 60 respondents using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, benefit-cost ratio, and multiple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that majority of the farmers were female, within the economically active age group, fairly educated, experienced in farming, and operated on small-scale holdings. The cost and return analysis showed that fluted pumpkin production was profitable with a gross margin of ₦370,500 per hectare, net farm income of ₦360,400 per hectare, and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.7, indicating that every ₦1 invested yielded ₦2.70. Regression analysis revealed that educational level, household size, farming experience, quantity of fertilizer used, and farm size positively influenced profitability, while age and cost of planting materials negatively affected profitability. Major constraints identified included high cost of inputs, poor storage facilities, inadequate credit access, high transportation costs, high labour costs, and pest and disease infestation. The study therefore concludes that fluted pumpkin production is a profitable enterprise with significant potential for income generation. It was recommended among others that government should provide subsidized farm inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and farm tools to reduce the high cost of production and improve farmers’ profitability.