Econometric Analysis of Fluted Pumpkin Production in Nigeria; Empirical In-Depth Analysis

Abstract

A study was carried out to investigate the econometric analysis of fluted pumpkin, Telfairia occidentalis production in South East, Nigeria. For this study, multi-stage random sampling was used to select 222 fluted pumpkin farmers using structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. It was observed in the study that the majority of the fluted pumpkin growers were females, married, relatively educated, and within productive age. A high productivity ratio was recorded by 39% of the fluted pumpkin growers due to exposure to agricultural forums and extension visits. Productivity differences across the state varied significantly with higher productivity estimates. Overall total factor productivity (TFP) and partial factor productivity (PFP) values were 11.33 and 111.2. The Majority, 52.2% of the fluted pumpkin farmers disposed of their produce in the local market due to proximity. The profit function analysis result gave N145,309.1, indicating economic viability and profitability of fluted pumpkin. Age, gender, household size, farm size, education, and farming experience influenced both the net returns and land productivity of the fluted pumpkin farmers. Farmers should be encouraged to embrace fluted pumpkin cultivation due to its economic viability, profitability, productivity and sustainability. Government should also assist in subsidizing and providing the needed inputs to encourage fluted pumpkin growers and enhance production as well.