Profitability analysis of small ruminant production among rural households in Ife-Ijesa agricultural zone, Osun state, Nigeria

The study examined profitability of small ruminant production in Ife/Ijesa Agricultural Zone, Osun State, Nigeria, using data of 120 respondents, selected through a multistage sampling procedure, and field surveys conducted using structured interviews. The study found that majority of respondents were middle-aged, married male, with a household size of five. Most had 1 to 13 years of formal education. Trading and small ruminant production were the most engaged livelihood activities. Most (90.00%) earned between ₦7,000 and ₦100,000 monthly from their primary occupation, with a mean monthly income of ₦58,908.33. The majority of respondents were male (52.50%), with a household size of five. The study found that the mean years of small ruminant production experience, total revenue, total production cost, and gross margin from the small ruminant production cycle were 12.23 years, ₦125,516.70, ₦199,662.49, and ₦99,000.03 respectively. Most respondents earned a medium gross margin, with the cost of feeding negatively influencing the level of gross margin. However, years of formal education, flock size, experience, and starting flock were positive determinants. The study found that the small-scale small ruminant farming is a profitable venture, increasing household income and reducing poverty. It suggests that policies and initiatives, especially in rural areas, should support small ruminant farmers through financial access, market development, and technology transfer. Keywords: small ruminant, rural households, small ruminant farming, gross margin, cost-benefit analysis