Economic Drivers of Cassava Product (Pupuru) among Women in Irele Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria

The growing market for cassava and its derivatives underscores the need to understand the economic dynamics of cassava value chains for sustainable agricultural development. This study examined the economic analysis of pupuru production in Irele Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Using a multistage sampling technique, 120 female cassava processors were selected. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using regression, budgeting, and descriptive statistics. Results showed that most processors were married (72.5%), educated (78.3%), with an average age of 43.6 years and 25.5 years of processing experience. About 91.7% lacked access to credit, while 90% operated commercially, producing cassava products as a secondary income source. With an average Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.50 and a Net Profit of ₦730,135.98 per processor, pupuru production was found to be profitable. Key factors influencing net income included years of experience (p < 0.05), education (p < 0.05), market access (p < 0.10), extension services (p < 0.01), and loan availability (p < 0.01). Major challenges faced were cassava price fluctuations (mean = 4.72), high processing costs (mean = 4.20), and limited credit access (mean = 3.60). The study concluded that pupuru production is a viable and profitable enterprise. It recommended improved access to credit through strengthened banking infrastructure and encouraged women processors to maximize profits by leveraging the economic potential of pupuru production.