ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L) PRODUCTION IN AYAMELUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ANAMBRA STATE

The economic analysis of okra production among smallholder farmers in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra was conducted, utilizing cross-sectional data from 100 randomly sampled respondents. The study employed various analytical techniques, including descriptive statistics, budgetary analysis, and linear regression modeling. The socio-economic characteristics of okra farmers revealed a dominance of female farmers (66%) in the study area, with the majority falling within the age range of 41-60 (50%). Married individuals constituted the largest group (52%), and the majority had completed only primary education (43%). Farmers had an average farming experience of 10.45 years and an average household size of 8.68. Additionally, almost half of the farmers (45%) were members of a cooperative association, while 39% had access to extension contacts. The cost and returns analysis indicated the financial viability of okra production, with positive gross margins, net returns, and a profitability index of 51.2%. The return on investment was 0.91, signifying a positive venture for okra farmers.