Bambara Groundnut as Panacea for Food Security: Profitability and Production Efficiency in Benue State, Nigeria

Bambara groundnut (BG), an underutilized leguminous crop often referred to as 'complete food', not only has the capacity of fighting hunger and malnutrition but also improves the soil conditions. This study assessed the profitability and economic efficiency of the Bambara groundnut farmers in Benue State. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire and oral interview. A multi-stage sampling technique, which involves purposive and simple random sampling technique, was adopted in selecting 115 Bambara groundnut farmers. Descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis and Stochastic Frontier Model were used to analyse the data. The study found mean annual gross margin per hectare of Bambara groundnut as (sic) 18,958.83. Also, the result of the profitability test shows that Bambara groundnut cultivation in the study area is profitable (t=7.625; P <= 0.05). Furthermore, the mean technical efficiency estimates of Bambara groundnut farmers was found to be 70%. Similarly, an average farmer spent about 9% above the minimum frontier cost in producing a unit output. Thus, there is scope for increasing the technical and allocative efficiency of Bambara groundnut farmers through better use of resources, given the current level of technology. Bambara groundnut farmers should be given adequate assistance through training, and provision of essential agricultural inputs that will enhance increased productivity of this crop.