Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on examining the economic efficiency of resource use among urban waterleaf farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Waterleaf farming is a significant agricultural activity in urban areas, providing livelihoods for many small-scale farmers. However, there is a need to assess the economic efficiency of resource use in this sector to enhance productivity and sustainability. The study employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods to collect data from waterleaf farmers in selected urban areas of Akwa Ibom State. The research findings reveal that waterleaf farmers in Akwa Ibom State face various challenges related to resource use efficiency, including inadequate access to modern farming techniques, limited capital, and poor market linkages. Despite these challenges, the study identifies opportunities for improving economic efficiency through interventions such as training on modern farming practices, access to credit facilities, and development of better market networks. By enhancing resource use efficiency, waterleaf farmers can increase their productivity, income, and overall contribution to the local economy. The study also highlights the role of government policies and programs in promoting economic efficiency among urban waterleaf farmers. Policy recommendations include the need for targeted interventions to address specific challenges faced by waterleaf farmers, such as improving access to agricultural extension services and supporting the development of market infrastructure. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of stakeholder collaboration and knowledge sharing to enhance the economic efficiency of waterleaf farming in Akwa Ibom State. Overall, this research project contributes to the existing literature on urban agriculture and economic efficiency in Nigeria by focusing on the specific case of waterleaf farming in Akwa Ibom State. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and farmers to improve resource use efficiency, promote sustainable agriculture, and enhance the economic well-being of urban waterleaf farmers. The study underscores the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by urban farmers and implementing targeted interventions to support their livelihoods and contribute to food security and economic development in the region.

Thesis Overview

The study estimated the efficiency of resource use among urban waterleaf farmers in AkwaIbom State using a sample of 60 respondents that were randomly selected (20) from threeurban centers in the state. Interview schedules and structured questionnaires wereadministered to elicit information from the respondents. Data were analyzed usingdescriptive statistics, multiple regression and gross margin. The results showed that, most(85%) farmers were within the economically active age bracket (21-50yrs). All the farmerswere female with a mean house hold size of eight. Majority (90%) of the farmers were literatewith a mean farming experience of 8.5 years.

The average farm size was 0.065ha, andwaterleaf was planted as a sole crop to obtain high output. The multiple regression analysisshowed that educational level, household size, farming experience, quantity of manure,labour and farm size positively and significantly influenced the output of waterleaf in thestudy area. The efficiency ratios of farm size (28.68), manure (42.11) and labour (0.91),showed that waterleaf farmers were inefficient in the use of these resources. Land resourceand manure were underutilized, while labour was over- utilized. Gross margin analysisshowed that farmers made profit (Gross margin = N 287,252.52 per hectare). Lack of accessto credit facilities was the farmer’s major constraints. It is therefore recommended that creditfacilities should be provided to the urban farmers, and extension agent should take advantage of the literate farmers to disseminate research information

The average farm size was 0.065ha, andwaterleaf was planted as a sole crop to obtain high output. The multiple regression analysisshowed that educational level, household size, farming experience, quantity of manure,labour and farm size positively and significantly influenced the output of waterleaf in thestudy area. The efficiency ratios of farm size (28.68), manure (42.11) and labour (0.91),showed that waterleaf farmers were inefficient in the use of these resources. Land resourceand manure were underutilized, while labour was over- utilized. Gross margin analysisshowed that farmers made profit (Gross margin = N 287,252.52 per hectare). Lack of accessto credit facilities was the farmer’s major constraints. It is therefore recommended that creditfacilities should be provided to the urban farmers, and extension agent should take advantage
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