GENDER ANALYSIS AND TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY AMONG RICE FARMERS IN ODEDA LGA AREA OF OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

The study analyzed the gender differentials and technical efficiency among male and female rice farmers. The study specifically described the socio-economic characteristics of male and female rice farmers, determined the technical efficiency of male and female rice farmers, estimated the cost and returns of rice production and identified the constraints facing rice farmers in the study area. Primary data was used and it was collected through the use of well-structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Multistage sampling techniques was used to select respondents from the study and the analytical tools used were descriptive statistics, stochastic frontier model and gross margin analysis. The study revealed notable differences in the socio-economic characteristics of male and female rice farmers. Male farmers were generally older, while female farmers were younger, with most households having around 8 members, indicating a reliance on family labor. Both male and female farmers had relatively high levels of education, with many having received formal education, suggesting the potential for adopting modern farming practices. In terms of farming experience, both male and female farmers had considerable experience, with many having over 20 years in rice farming. Farm sizes were small, averaging around 4.8 hectares, classifying most of the farmers as smallholders. Most farmers cultivated rice for both family consumption and market sales, and a large number participated in cooperatives and farmers’ associations, providing access to resources like micro-credit and inputs. Extension services also played a key role in improving farming techniques and productivity among the farmers. A significant finding was the disparity in income between male and female farmers, with male farmers earning substantially higher profits than their female counterparts. Male farmers generated higher net revenue, suggesting gender-based differences in access to resources or efficiency. Farmers also faced several challenges, including inadequate rainfall, limited access to credit, and land tenure issues, all of which affected their productivity. Despite these challenges, there is potential for improvement by adopting more efficient farming methods and addressing key constraints. Based on the findings, the study recommended that government and financial institutions should collaborate to provide rice farmers, especially women, with easier access to micro-loans