EVALUATION OF THE PROFITABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN CASHEW NUT (ANACARDIUM OCCIDENTALE) MARKETING IN ANKPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed youth participation in cashew nut marketing in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. It specifically described the socioeconomic characteristics of the youths, examined the profitability of youth involvement in cashew nut marketing, assessed the efficiency and performance of youth in cashew nut marketing, and determined the level of market integration in cashew nut marketing. A three staged random sampling method was used to select 120 youth involved in cashew nut marketing for the study. Relevant primary data obtained through structured questionnaire were analysed using descriptive statistics, gross margin model, marketing efficiency, and Pearson price correlation. Findings of the study showed a mean age and marketing experience of 37 years and 10 years respectively. Gross margin obtained was N 445, 563.90 per annum, N14, 811.11 per bag and N185.11per kg with a high efficiency level of 654%. The level of integration (0.415) between Awo and Enjema markets was significant 5%. Youth are encouraged to consider cashew nut marketing as an option to reduce unemployment and improve their welfare.