Perception of Maize Processors Towards Utilization of Maize Value Addition Techniques: Implications for Rural Entrepreneurship Development – A Study in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: Huge losses in maize production lead to reduction in farmers’ income and food insecurity. However, it is expected that the value chain approach would provide processors with actionable methods capable of increasing productivity and income. However, maize producers and processors in the study area are still faced with post-harvest wastages and limited products along maize value chain; Hence, the study. Research Method: The data for this study were gathered through an interview schedule from 120 maize processors in Nigeria. Appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical tools such as frequency counts, means, standard deviations chi-square and correlation analyses were used to analyze the data Findings: The results revealed that majority were female with the mean monthly income was N 51,000.33. A total of 17 value addition techniques were identified and indigenous ones include pap making (39.5%) and solid gel making (32.5%). Majority were small scale local processors producing for their immediate communities and where almost equal numbers of processors were operating either on part time or full time basis. 56.7% had a favorable perception towards the utilization of maize value addition techniques. Sex and occupation had a significant association while years of schooling and income had significant relationships with the perception towards the utilization of maize value addition. Research limitations: The study was limited in that it did not cover all the geographical zones in Nigeria since there was no grant to support the research. Originality/value: The study identified different maize value addition techniques utilized by the processors and the characteristics of the enterprise in the study area.