OIL PALM PRODUCTS AND THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC LIVES OF RURAL HOUSEHOLDS IN BENUE STATE

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the impact of oil palm products on the socio economic lives of Benue state with particular reference to Ogbadibo local government. The primary data used for the study were obtained through the use of structure questionnaires and oral interviews. Descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis were used to achieve the objectives of the study. It was revealed that majority of the farmers obtained their fruits for processing from the village or open market. The study revealed that oil palm processing and marketing is a profitable business in the area.  Problems or constraints arose from the enterprise include: fluctuation of prices, lack of rural infrastructures and inputs such as capital and processing machines. The recommendations made by the researcher include: government to supply rural infrastructures, reduce tax rate and the processors and marketers to be encouraged to form cooperative societies so as to access credits.