Income Level of Oil Palm Farmers Before and After Credit Utilization in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study investigated the income level of oil palm farmers before and after credit utilization. Data from 145 respondents were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Lorenz curve and the Gini Coefficient. Results revealed that credit acquisition had a positive influence on the income level of farmers. Inequality/disparity in income distribution before farm credit utilization was quite low with a Gini coefficient of 0.028. There was a reasonable level of inequality/disparity in the income distribution after utilizing farm credit with a Gini coefficient of 0.353. However, the bulk of the income and credit share among the respondents was distributed more in one block than in other blocks. Relevant stakeholders should develop a quota policy that will accommodate all the blocks in the zone in subsequent credit application and distribution. There is a need to mobilize and sensitize oil palm farmers on credit availability and access that specifically target oil palm cultivation.