Analysis of the Factors Influencing Rice Processing and its Profitability in Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analyzed the factors influencing the processing and profitability of rice in Sokoto State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used select 120 rice respondents used for the study. The data generated were analyzed using descriptive, inferential statistics and gross margin analysis. Results of the data analysis revealed that the majority of the rice processors were males (87.50%) and in their active productive ages (18-28 years), most of them (63.33%) were not married and took up rice processing as their primary occupation. The findings further indicated that majority of the processors did not make use of modern technology for soaking, parboiling and milling of the rice due to poor knowledge of the existence of improved rice processing technologies. The common rice processing materials used by the processors were local materials such as cut-drums, pots, tarpaulin (spent bagco bags) and fire woods. Result of the inferential statistics revealed a significant relationship (P< 0.05) between the processors household size and the utilization of modern processing technologies. The study concluded that despite the use of local rice processing technologies, the business attracts more income compared to other trades in the locality. It is recommended that the rice processors should be assisted with modern rice processing technologies.