Analysis of Seedling Subsidy Policy and Cocoa Production in South-West Nigeria

Abstract

The study analysis seedling subsidy policy and cocoa production in south-west Nigeria. Data were collected with questionnaires and interviews. Purposive sampling technique was used in the selection of Key Informants on cocoa production. Descriptive statistics and content analytical techniques were used for analysing the collected data. Findings showed that 79%, 95% and 96% of local government areas in Oyo, Ondo and Osun States respectively are producing cocoa. Again, both Ondo and Oyo states have been supplying more than one million seedlings while Osun has been supplying 800,000 seedlings to their farmers every year since the commencement of seedling subsidy policy. The unit cost of the seedlings was between N10 and N20 in Ondo and Osun states respectively due to 50% subsidy while Oyo state was supplying the seedlings at 100% subsidy to the farmers. Ondo state produced the highest quantity of cocoa in 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2011 while Osun recorded highest production figure in 2007 and 2008. Inadequate funding, delay in release of funds and dearth of manpower are the major challenges to its implementation. The study recommends adequate and timely release of funds for seedling production and provision of 100% subsidy to enhance cocoa production in the country.

DOI: 10.5901/jesr.2013.v3n4p59