Gender Differential in Production Efficiency of Bambara Nut in Kogi State.

International Journal Of Agricultural Science, Research And Technology In Extension And Education Systems,16(1),23 This study investigates gender differences in the production efficiency of Bambara nut farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria, using data from 200 rural households. It assesses technical, allocative, and economic efficiency, as well as key socioeconomic determinants and production constraints. Statistical analyses, including the Stochastic Production Function and Tobit Model, reveal that male farmers are generally more efficient than female farmers. Specifically, 64% of male and 59% of female farmers achieved technical efficiency levels between 0.91 and 1.00, with mean efficiencies of 0.86 for males and 0.79 for females. Male farmers also showed higher allocative (0.78) and economic (0.69) efficiency compared to females (0.72 and 0.62, respectively). Significant determinants of economic efficiency include gender, education, household size, extension access, farming experience, and income. Key constraints include limited government support, poor storage, credit inaccessibility, and high input costs. The study recommends gender-sensitive policies, improved input access, and targeted training to boost productivity.