Livelihood Analysis of Rice Processors in Kwara State

Rice is a staple food in Nigeria, yet the role of processing in shaping household welfare remains less documented compared to production. This study assessed rice processors in Kwara State with emphasis on levels of participation, profitability, and the determinants of involvement. Primary data were obtained from 150 respondents and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, ordered logistic regression, correlation, and regression techniques. Findings revealed that hulling accounted for the highest participation (94%), while polishing and parboiling emerged as the most profitable stages, yielding gross margins of ₦1,884.86 and ₦1,513.73 respectively. The ordered logistic regression model was statistically significant, indicating that gender, age, household size, and satisfaction were major determinants of involvement. A positive correlation (r = 0.3713) was observed between level of involvement and livelihood status. Regression results further showed that household income, years of experience, and intensity of processing significantly improved livelihood outcomes, with an R² value of 0.4366 explaining 43.66% of variation. Overall, 58.67% of processors recorded high livelihood status, while 41.33% remained in the low category.