Analysis of the Factors Influencing Savings and Investment Behaviour among Yam Entrepreneurs in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study analysed the factors influencing savings and investment behaviour among yam entrepreneurs in Benue State of Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: (1) determine the extent of savings and investment among yam entrepreneurs, and (2) to identify and analyse the factors influencing savings and investment behaviour among yam entrepreneurs. Data were collected from 288 yam entrepreneurs in six local government areas and 24 wards using a multi-stage sampling technique. Structured interview schedule was used to collect the data. Data collected were analysed using frequency distributions table, percentages and factor analysis. The results reveal that yam entrepreneurs carry out their savings on weekly basis and their investment on a daily and weekly basis. The results also indicate that financial and social factors significantly affect savings and investment behaviour of yam entrepreneurs. It was recommended that policies aimed at improving savings and investment of yam entrepreneurs should focus on social and financial factors affecting their savings and investment behaviour; campaign promoting savings and investment should be intensified; establishment of agricultural development banks and setting up more branches of commercial banks in the areas of these yam entrepreneurs should be encouraged.

Key words: Factors, Savings, Investment, Behaviour, Yam Entrepreneurs, Benue State