Comparative Analyses of Farm Resource Efficiencies in Rice Production under Smallscale Farmer-managed Irrigation Schemes and Rainfed Systems in Kogi State, Nigeria

This study compared technical efficiencies of rice production in farmer-managed irrigation(FMIS) and rainfed systems(RFS) on rice farms in Kogi State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 60 farmers in each system (total =120 farmers). The stochastic frontier model was used to determine the technical efficiency of the rice farmers in both systems. The estimated elasticities of rice output with respect to land, fertilizer, family labour, seeds, and water were statistically significant in the FMIS. Their respective elasticities were 0.33, 0.010, 0.075, 0.151 and 0.165. Land size and fertilizer were statistically significant in the RFS. Elasticities of rice output with respect to land and chemical fertilizer utilized were 0.276 and 0.024 respectively. The mean technical efficiency of the FMIS was 73% while RFS had 90%. Significant difference existed in the technical efficiencies of the two groups. The returns to scales estimated (0.813, and 0.476) were decreasing. Farming experience, education and extension contacts exerted significant effects on the technical linefficiencies of the FMIS. Under the RFS education, extension contact and age were significant. Inefficiency variables were statistically significant in the model. Supply of inputs and organic farming practice, farm credit, mechanization and dams were recommended for the governmentsʹ intervention.