ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF MAIZE GRAIN MARKETING IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLIS, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to provide an economic analysis of maize grain marketing in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the maize marketers, identify the marketing channels, estimate the costs and returns, and identify the constraints faced. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select sixty (60) respondents from the Monday and Muna markets. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis. The results revealed that the maize marketing sector is dominated by male (86.7%) retailers (86.7%) within the age bracket of 21-35 years (41.7%), who primarily rely on personal savings (40%) for capital. The most common marketing channel involved sourcing maize directly from producers (55%) and selling through retailers. The gross margin analysis showed that maize marketing is profitable, with a gross margin of ₦1,760 per 50kg bag and a gross margin ratio of 4.4%. However, the profitability is constrained by several factors, with inadequate capital (31.4%) being the most significant, followed by inadequate storage facilities (25.4%) and inadequate transportation (17.7%). The study concludes that while maize marketing is a viable enterprise in Maiduguri Metropolis, its potential is hampered by high operational costs and critical infrastructural and financial constraints. It is recommended that stakeholders facilitate improved access to credit, develop modern storage facilities, and enhance rural transportation infrastructure to boost efficiency and profitability in the maize marketing system.