TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY AND CONSTRAINTS TO RABBIT PRODUCTION IN KWARA STATE NIGERIA

This study analysed the technical efficiency of rabbit production in Kwara State, Nigeria. It specially analysed the levels of the factors affecting the technical efficiency and identified the constraints to rabbit production in the study area. A snowballing sampling technique was employed for the sample selection of 120 rabbit farmers and primary data were collected with the aid of questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Cobb-Douglas production function, Tobit regression and Likert-type scale. Results from the Cobb-Douglas showed a sigma square of 2.166 which was statistically significant at 0.01 percent. The mean of technical efficiency was 0.76. Cost of feed, breeding stock, drugs, housing, and transportation had a negative coefficient with efficiency. Major constraints faced by the rabbit farmers were availability of feed, cost of production and disease and pest. It is therefore recommended that to promote efficient rabbit farming production, it is essential to provide training on preventive health measures, such as biosecurity, to minimize disease outbreaks. Additionally, educating farmers on the use of organic drugs can help reduce costs. Furthermore, pairing young farmers with experienced mentors can facilitate knowledge sharing, skill development, and best practices adoption, ultimately contributing to success and efficiency of rabbit farming operations.