Parametric Approach of Assessing Performance of Yam Farms in Oyo State of Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed at determining the performance of yam farms in Oyo State of Nigeria. Data collection was through well structured questionnaire administered on 110 respondents selected by simple random sampling technique. The methods of analysis used were descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier production function analysis using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) and Maximum Likelihood Estimates (MLE) criteria to estimate the parameters of the production function. Results showed that majority of the farmers were middle aged and quite experienced in yam production. Also, there was moderate level of literacy as 88 % of the respondents had one form of education or the other. Farming was majorly on small-scale level as the average farm size was 2.5hectares.  Result further showed that age, farm size, quantity of yam planted, agro-chemicals and cost on implements were positively related to output while total labour, education, experience, access to extension and credit facility carried negative signs. However, farm size, agro-chemicals and quantity of yam have significant influence on total output. It was recommended that in order to boost yam production more land should be devoted to its production in the study area.

Keywords: Parametric Approach, Performance, Yam Farmers, Nigeria