EVALUATION ON THE IMPACT OF ROAD NETWORK ON THE MARKETING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN AKWA IBOM STATE

This study evaluates the impact of bad road networks on the marketing of agricultural products in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-method approach. Quantitative data were collected from 180 respondents across six local government areas: Oron, Abak, Ikot Ekpene, Etinan, Eket, and Uyo. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean perception scores, were used to analyze respondents' socio-demographic characteristics, agricultural activities, road connectivity, and transportation modes. Findings revealed that poor road infrastructure significantly hampers agricultural marketing, with 51.7% of farms connected by footpaths and only 0.56% linked by paved roads. Tricycles were the dominant mode of transportation, used by 36.1% of farmers for transporting produce home and 44.4% for market trips. Perception data indicated unanimous agreement (100%) on the role of road networks in reducing spoilage and costs, but 97.78% rated the current road networks as inadequate. The study concludes that poor road conditions increase transportation costs, reduce market access, and contribute to post-harvest losses. Recommendations include improving rural road infrastructure, promoting mechanized transport, establishing agro-logistics hubs, fostering public-private partnerships, and building farmer capacity for efficient marketing practices. These findings emphasize the urgent need for infrastructural development to enhance agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.