Analysis of Maize Processing in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This article was centered on the analysis of maize processing in Ughelli-North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the socio-economic characteristics of farmers involved in maize processing, analyze the methods of maize processing, ascertain the level of awareness of improved technology in maize processing and identify the various products of maize in the area. One Hundred questionnaires were administered to the respondents. The data collected were analyzed using simple statistical tools such as frequency distribution, percentages and regression model. Some findings from the analysis revealed that female (91%) were more into maize processing than male (9%). The research also revealed that 91% of the respondents used traditional processing method and their level awareness to improve maize varieties and product is 65%. The level of access to modern technology is low. The result from the analysis showed that R = 0.702, R² = 0.690 at P = 0.034. This showed that some of the socio­economic characteristics of the farmers did affect maize processing. Necessary recommendations included males particularly youth should be encouraged to go into maize processing and should not be regarded as females’ jobs, all age categories and farmers with no formal education should be encouraged to go into maize processing, more awareness on improved varieties should be brought to farmers and credit facilities should be made available to farmers and increase in accessibility to modern maize processing techniques.