CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is a staple fruit vegetable, one of the most

important vegetables worldwide and considered as important cash and industrial crop in many parts

of the world that has become popular over the last century (Saeed-Awan et al., 2012; and Ajagbe

et al., 2014). Tomato is a tender and compression-sensitive fruit, it is a member of the Solanaceae

family botanically known as berry (Babarinsa & Ige, 2014; & Abdullah et al., 2014). It is a

perennial crop but some cultivars are grown as annual crop in some parts of the world. It is the

second most important vegetable crop next to potato. It is important source of vitamins and

minerals for humans, hence, necessary in the preparation of many local dishes and very important

in the diet of Nigeria’s populace (Abdullah et al., 2010; and Olayemi et al., 2010). However, tomato

is used as condiments for making stews which is a regular feature of African meals and accounts

for about 18% of the average daily consumption of vegetables in Nigeria (Ebimieowei &

Ebideseghabofa, 2013).

According to Ayandiji & Adeniyi (2011) and Achoja & Okoh (2014), tomato is high in

water soluble vitamins and minerals, essential amino acids, sugars, dietary fiber, low in fat, protein,

edible oil and lycopene. Tomatoes are consumed fresh in salads, cooked in sauces, soup and

meat/fish dishes or as raw materials for food industries by processing into value added products

such as juices, paste, puree, ketchup and canned products (Ajagbe et al., 2014). Onifade et al.

(2013) added that, daily intake of tomatoes provides the body with nutrients like carotene, vitamin,

lycopene which lower the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases; it also has antioxidant

components that are medically useful in the area of cataracts, bone metabolism, asthma and helps

to reduce the risk of prostate and breast cancer (Shankara et al., 2005). It has presently been
considered as an important cash and industrial crop in numerous parts of the world (Saeed-Awan

et al., 2012).

Production and consumption of tomato around the world has found to increase

tremendously over the past 25 years, with an average output of 105 million tonnes of fresh fruits

from an estimated 3.9 million hectares (Ayandiji & Adeniyi, 2011). According to Ebimieowei &

Ebideseghabofa (2013), Nigeria was ranked the second largest producer of tomato in Africa after

Egypt and 13th in the world, with production capacity of more than 6 million tonnes annually.

Tomato is grown in Nigeria in diverse agro-ecological zones ranges from humid in the south to

sub-humid in the middle belt and savanna in the north. It is mostly cultivated in the northern regions

of the country between latitudes 7.5 °N and 13 °N; within a temperature range of 25°C – 34°C

(Idah et al., 2007).

However, vegetables including tomatoes, are highly perishable in nature due to their large

water content. Efficient marketing for the commodity is essential to ensure optimum satisfaction

of producers and consumers. Thus, in Gombe State the supply of fresh tomato is adequate/surplus

and thus consumers’ rarely used the other forms between the months of January and April; and

then in the months of April to September, the supply of the commodity drastically declined and

thus representing the off-season period for the crop and during such period consumers turns to the

other forms [Gombe State Government; GSG] (GSG, 2015). Therefore, seasonality of the fresh

tomato product causes price to fluctuate and thus affecting consumption patterns of the consumers.

Generally, consumers used processed form of tomato (dried or canned) when the fresh is not very

much available due to seasonality. In this case however, the incomes of producers assumed varied

due to seasoned nature of production of the commodity which affects the supply and demand.
1.2 Statement of the Problem

Tomato is among the important vegetable crop cultivated in most areas of Nigeria. The crop

is characterized by problems of seasonality, bulkiness and highly perishable in nature. The

persistence of these problems affects production and marketing of the commodity. Due to the

difficulty in the handling of fresh tomato among farmers, price and income variation is a regular

phenomenon in Nigeria. Price and income variation of fresh tomato differ among regions and

seasons. However, price being the coordinating cell for agricultural production and marketing;

determines resource allocation and utilization in the agricultural sector. In the context of the

marketing environment, price and income showed the level of efficiency and the working

mechanism among agricultural product markets. In a poverty stricken society like Nigeria, price

and income level are fundamental determinants of both producer and consumer preference (Akpan

et al., 2014).

However, income variations of farmers were related to price volatility in agricultural

commodities that is subjected to several factors including variances in bargaining power among

consumers, cyclical income fluctuation among sellers and consumers, seasonality of production,

natural shocks such as flood, pests, diseases, and inappropriate response by farmers to price signals

(Gilbert, 1999). Subsequently, Instability in commodity prices among markets could be detrimental

to the production and marketing system and the economy as a whole. It could cause inefficiency in

resources allocation among producers and consumers depending on the source of variability (that

is, whether it is induce by supply or demand side or both), and could also increase poverty level

among low income earners in the society (Polaski, 2008). On the other hand, a unified product

price among spatial markets might not be a rational policy to pursue in a developing economy like

that of Nigeria. This is because of the deteriorating marketing infrastructures, increase in cost of

externalities and the nature of most agricultural products which often resulted in significant
differences in the total variable costs incurred by producers and consumers. Moreover, prices of

tomato in rural and urban markets differ depending on the availability of infrastructures among

others. Spatial price linkages are often interpreted as providing insight into the efficiency of

infrastructures of markets. This is especially true in rural areas of Gombe State, where

infrastructural issues such as good road systems, market development, transportation and etc. may

be especially pertinent.

Thus, in separated markets, when there is significant price difference between homogenous

goods, such that the differences exceeded the transfer cost; the arbitrage activities will be

stimulated. The arbitrageur will purchase commodities from lower-price markets and resale in

higher-price markets. This is a situation where spatial markets are not integrated. On the other

hand, two markets are integrated when there is a significant long-run relationship between prices

of homogenous goods due to the smooth transmission of price signals and information across the

two markets. Another problem is that, the rate at which tomatoes is consumed in Nigeria has

indeed, outweighs the rate of supply. Tomato production have incurred great losses, occasioned by

postharvest losses hence, this has resulted in more lost in farm income. Nigeria has spent so much

of funds on the importation of tomatoes paste into the country. Commercial tomatoes production

in country has some challenges, but the business is quite promising. The truth remained that, when

there is increase in investment in this particular sector, the likelihood is that, it will stimulate, as

well as, generate activities that will help in addressing the current trend, where more than 45% of

tomatoes production are lost as a result of poor post-harvest management and transportation.

However, in order to close the gap between demand and supply of fresh tomato

requirement, it has become very necessary to extend researches on the costs, returns and as well as

production efficiencies. Therefore, it is worthwhile to study tomatoes to identify its production and

marketing problems, to provide information that looks into the possible ways and means of
increasing producers’ income. To this effect, the study is made to provide answers to the following

research questions:

i) What are the socio-economic characteristics of tomato producers in the study area?

ii) What are the costs and returns of tomato production in the study area?

iii) What is the seasonality difference in farmers’ income in the study area?

iv) What are the constraints to tomato production in the study area?

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The broad objective of the study was to examine the income variations in seasonal tomato

production among vegetable farmers in Gombe State. While the specific objectives include to;

i) describe the socioeconomic characteristics of tomato producers in the study area;

ii) determine costs and return in tomato production in the area;

iii) assess difference in farmers’ income due to seasonality in production in the study

area;

iv) identify and describe constraints to tomato production in the study area.

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Ho: There is no significant income variation in seasonal tomato production by vegetable

farmers in Gombe state.

H1: There is significant income variation in seasonal tomato production by vegetable farmers

in Gombe state.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The significance of the study is to highlight some of the income and assessment of the

variations in seasonal tomato production by vegetable farmers and the inability of the farmers to

charter for the economics and social development of their areas of production and also for the
farmers to appreciate the level of their problem and proffer solutions accordingly. It will assist the

farmers to effect some necessary changes to enhance a high standard performance in achieving its

strategies to improve the income level. This study is premised on that fact that the income variations

among seasonal tomato production by vegetable farmers creates impact on their level of

production. This is also serve as a reference or source of information to potential researcher on the

topic.

Also, the study attempts to contribute to the general knowledge in production economics in

the State; thereby providing basis for concerted stakeholders’ action towards large scale

production. Gombe State was chosen for the study because of the important position it holds in the

country in terms of tomatoes output. However, results of this research work would be essential in

guiding producers and traders in selecting factors that would improve their income levels, hence

justifying the relevance of the study. It is also hope that, the study will contribute to the existing

little stock of knowledge on the value chain of tomatoes which can serve as a stepping forward for

further research at local, regional and/or national level at large.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study is aimed at assessing how the income variation affects the level of tomato

production. It covers both urban and rural production areas and as well as cost-returns and

production constraints to tomato. The populations for this study comprise of the vegetable farmers

of different farming season.

 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Production of Tomato

Tomatoes originated from the Andes, in what is now called Peru, Bolivia, Chile and

Ecuador - where they grew wild. They were first cultivated by the Aztecs and Incas as early as

700 AD. The Latin name for the cultivated tomato is Lycopersicon escutentum, which means edible

wolf's peach, though no one is quite sure why wolf's peach. Soon after the tomato's arrival in

Europe, it was also known as the Peruvian apple. The cultivated tomatoes (Lycopersicon

esculentum var.mill) is a descendant of the wild tomatoe (Lycopersicon esculentum var

ceraciforme). The crop probably originated from Peru-Ecuador area, where it was distributed to

many parts of tropical America as a weed, but became domesticated first in Mexico. Tomatoes

arrived in West Africa through Portuguese traders, or were brought across the continent from Egypt

and then Sudan (Gentilcore, 2010).

Tomatoes didn’t arrive in Europe until the 16th Century, although it is not known how. It

has been said that they were brought back from Central America by Spanish Conquistadors

another legend suggests that two Jesuit priests brought them to Italy from Mexico. Others say

Columbus brought the first tomato to Europe. It was not until the 19th Century that commercial

tomato cultivation began. The first commercial glasshouses were built in Kent and Essex in the

mid-19th Century, after large-scale production of sheet glass became possible. Furthermore,

tomato is the richest source of nutrients, dietary fibers antioxidant like lycopene and beta-carotene,

and the compounds that protect cells from cancer (Hobson, 1993). Tomato has a short generation

time of about three to four months. It is well fitted in different cropping systems of cereals grains,

pulses and oilseeds. Hence, it is the most widely grown solanaceous vegetable crops grown

worldwide under outdoor and indoor conditions Hackett et al. (2000).

 Previously tomatoes were grown only during favorable season, but now a day’s tomatoes

are grown round the year. Because of its economic importance area under cultivation is increasing

every year. The estimated area and production of tomato for India are about 350,000 hectares and

5,300,000 tons respectively. Worldwide tomato production in 2005 totaled 29.9 million metric tons

and production for the 2005/2006 season in Europe totaled 10.6 million metric tons. Tomato is the

second largest vegetable crop in India.

The average productivity of tomato in our country is merely 158q/ha while its productivity

in USA is 588q/ha, in Greece 498q/ha, in Italy 466q/ha and 465q/ha in Spain. Ten most promising

states of India for tomato crop have been identified and utilized for further study on various aspects

of tomato crop. Bihar State is at leading position followed by UP and Orissa in terms of area under

tomato crop. The maximum production and productivity have been shown by UP followed by

Karnataka, Punjab, West Bengal and Assam. India’s export of value added tomato products was

around 758.6 tons, which included 41 tons of canned tomato products, 38 tones tomato juice valued

at and 595 tones ketchup in the year 2005-2006. This accounts for more than thousand cores to the

Indian economy even with least price like three rupees per kilo. This significant achievement in

tomato production is possible due to the development of high yielding varieties/hybrids, breeding

for biotic and abiotic stresses, resistance and heterosis breeding. (FAOSTAT, 2012). China has

been found to be the leading country in tomato production, producing about 50,000,000 Metric

tonnes of tomato followed by India with 17,500,000 Metric tonnes and United States with about

13,206,950 metric tonnes. This shows how actively involved the developed countries are in the

production of tomato.
2.2 Socio- economic characteristics of farmers and tomato production

Studies have revealed that most of the tomato farmers are married males with an average

of 5 people in the household. Most of the tomato farmers were literate with an average of secondary

school education, and their average age of 35 years fall within the active age group. The study also

revealed that tomato production is a profitable venture, but the levels of resource use with respect

to fertilizer, land and seed were below optimum (Afolami & Ayinde, 2001).

Also, Haruna (2012) revealed that, 60% of tomato farmers are males and 40% females,

8.3% of retailers are males and 91.7% females. Male wholesalers represent 20% while females

form 80%. Thus, majority of farmers are males while females dominate the trading of tomato. He

also indicated that majority of farmers fall within the age range of 49-60 years; also most of the

wholesalers are within the 49-60 age brackets. Retailers are concentrated within the age range 27-

37. Thus, while farmers and wholesalers have a relatively aging population that of retailers is

comparatively young. This is not surprising since most of the youth are running away from

agriculture to the services sector. Oyediran (2013) revealed in melon production in Oyo State that

most Nigerian farmers are within this age group and are economically active part of the population.

Majority (70%) of the respondents were male, married, and had one form of formal education or

the other. Moreover, Ajagbe et al. (2014) showed that most of tomato farmers had one form of

education or the other with household size of more than 5 members while 62.67% of the tomato

farmers had spent 6 – 10 years in tomato farming.

2.3 Costs and returns in tomato production

Cost refers to the value of the inputs used in production, while profits are obtained by

subtracting the cost from the revenue (Adegeye & Dittoh, 1985). Cost as defined by Gittinger

(1984) is anything that reduces an objective while benefit is that which contributes to objectives.
Olukosi & Ogungbile (1989) refer to cost as expenses in organizing and carrying out production.

The average gross revenue per hectare generated by tomato farmers as revealed by Usman and

Bakari (2013) is N307, 212.12 while the total average cost of production usually incurred during

production is N191, 259.9. The average gross margin per hectare therefore are N115, 952.22. In

Nigeria the prevailing price of tomato was N120 per kg (Ebimieowei et al., 2013). This shows that

tomato production is a very profitable venture.

2.4 Constraints of tomato production

Several studies have shown that socio-economic and biological factors affect tomato

production in Nigeria. Some of the common problems in tomato production are pests and diseases.

Pests may include the following: Cutworms, Stem borer, Aphids, Tomato hornworms, whitefly,

army worms, caterpillar, slug etc. Diseases also include: target spot, Fusarium wilt, Verticillium

wilt, bacterial wilt, mosaic virus, Septoria leaf spot, anthracnose etc. (Ebimieowei et al., 2013).

Other challenges of tomato production included the financial constraints, price fluctuation, high

cost of production, high transportation cost, and lack of credit access (Maliwichi et al., 2014). Also

Haruna (2012) revealed that Inadequate Access to Information, Dispersed Nature of Source of

Supply of Tomatoes, Inadequate Warehousing and Storage Facilities, Poor Quality of Tomatoes

affects tomato production.

 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 The Study Area

Yamaltu-Deba is one of the eleven Local Government Areas of Gombe State, with its

headquarters situated at Deba-habe, 27 kilometers south-east of the State capital Gombe. It lies

within latitude 10°50” N and longitude 11°40” E. It shares common borders with Local

Government Areas of Gombe, Kwami, Akko, Kaltungo and Balanga to the West, North-West,

South-West and South respectively and also with Borno State to the East. It occupies a landmass

of 1,981 km2 with estimated human population of 255,248 with an annual growth of 3.2% (NPC,

2006). The study area is presumed the home of Tera and Jara ethnic groups; with some pockets of

Waja, Fulani, Hausa, Gasi, and Kanuri. Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area has warmth climate

with an average temperature of 30°C in the dry season. The mean annual rainfall received recorded

as 750mm. The soil is rich clay-loam which provides favourable conditions for agricultural

activities. Both irrigated and rain fed farming are practiced as well as animal husbandry and fishing.

Vegetables produced include: tomato, onion, okra, spinach, cabbage, sweet melon, water melon

and pepper while other crops produced are maize, sunflower, sorghum, rice, cotton, groundnut,

cowpea and millet.

3.2 Sampling Techniques

A three stage sampling technique was used to select 100 tomato producers. In stage I,

Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area will be purposively chosen being the principal area for

tomato production in the State. In stage II, the study area will be divided into four major tomato

belts namely; Gombe-north and Gombe-south, and will be purposively selected for their popularity

in tomato production. In stage III, a total of 100 tomato farmers will be selected using simple
random sampling technique disproportionate to the number of farmers in each tomato belt. This is

to ensure that every member of the population will have equal and independent chance of being

selected (Ya’u, 2017).

3.3 Sampling frame and Sample size

The sampling frame for this study will comprised of all the participants drawn from the

selected tomato belts in the study area, having an estimated total of 1,203. A sample is a subset of

the population on which observations will be taken for obtaining information and to draw valid

conclusions about the population. However, in determining the sample size appropriate for this

study, the Alamu & Olukosi (2010) model will be used. According to this model, the appropriate

sample size for estimated population of 1,200 vegetable farmers will be 100; representing 10% of

the population. A disproportional allocation technique will therefore be employed to select 25

tomato farmers from each tomato belt.

3.4 Method of Data Collection

Data for the study will be collected from primary sources using structured questionnaires

in line with the objectives of the study. Also, personal interviews to observe the full production

process will be made simultaneously with the formal questionnaire administration. This is to enable

the researcher generate qualitative information not captured in the questionnaire. The questionnaire

will have three sections; A, B and C; containing coded questions on tomato producers’ socio-

economic characteristics, the production variables, and as well as constraints to tomato production

respectively. Also, the questionnaire will contain few open-ended questions to allow the

respondents discuss freely particular production and marketing issues of concern to them.

3.5 Method of Data Analysis

In this study, the descriptive statistics, farm budget model and as well as the t-test analysis
model will be used to achieve specific objectives of the study.

3.5.1 Model specification

3.5.1.1 The descriptive statistics

The descriptive statistics such as; the frequency distribution table, percentage, range, means

and rankings are some of the mathematical tools to be used to describe the observed events and as

well to achieve objectives of the study. They will be used to present and show the distribution of

the socio-economic characteristics, cost-return and constraints variables of the respondents. The

mean function to be used for the study is therefore expressed as follows, as adopted by Ya’u et al.

(2017);

X = ∑fxi … (1)
∑f

Where;

x = Mean of grouped data

∑fxi = Sum of products of all variables and frequencies

∑f = Sum of all frequencies of variables

3.5.1.2 The farm budgeting model

This will be used to achieve objective two of the study. The model is meant to estimate cost

and return in tomato production and also to determine net profit realised by the farmers as described

by Olukosi & Erhabor (2005). However, the gross margin analysis as a popular model will be used

to measure the profitability of the enterprise this is because the fixed cost of production might be

insignificant. According to Salako et al. (2013), the Gross Margin (GM) equation is specified as;

GM = TR – TVC … (2)

Where:

GM = Gross margin (₦)

TR = Total revenue (₦)

TVC = Total variable costs (₦)

But, net income/profit (π) = Total Revenue – Total Cost

expressed as; π = TR – (TFC +TVC) or

π = TR – TC … (3)

3.5.1.3 The t-test analysis Commented [HP1]: t-test result not presented in Chapter
four please
The Paired t-test analysis will be used to achieve objective three of the study that is to assess

the income variation among tomato producers due to seasonality in production. The model is

assumed appropriate to compare the means of the two sample groups (Williams, 2006). The model

is specified in a more explicit form as;

t=XB–XA
SED …(4)

where;

t = t-test value

XB = Arithmetic mean of income realised from tomato production in rainy season

XA = Arithmetic mean of income realised from tomato production in dry season

SED = Standard error of the difference, and is determined as;

SED = √ (SEB) 2 + (SEA) 2 …(5)

and;

(SEB) 2 = Standard error of rainy season production;

(SEA) 2 = Standard error of dry season production

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Commented [HP2]: Ensure to use past tenses in all of
your presentation
4.1: Socio-Economic Characteristics of Tomato Producers.

The socio-economic characteristics of the respondents of tomato farmers in the study area

include; sex, marital status, household size, educational background, farming experience, etc.

4.1.1: Age distribution of tomato producers

Table 1 shows the age distribution of the respondents the result shows that most (58.5%) of

tomato producers in the study area were within the age of 31-40 years, while 37% of them within

the age limit of 41-50 years of age. The result indicated that majority (58.5%) of the respondents

are in the range of 31-40 years, with the mean age of 38.94 which implied that the production was Commented [HP3]: Provide the mean of age of the
respondents
dominated by adults who were in their active ages. Usman & Bakari (2013) obtained similar Commented [HP4R3]: Is ok

findings that mean age of tomato farmers in Nigeria was approximately 40 years. Hence, concluded

that these farmers were still in their active ages; they were assumed innovative, adaptive, physically

and mentally upright that would make them able to withstand tedious activity in traditional patterns

of farming.

Table 1: Age distribution of tomato producers

Age (years) Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

21-30 4 2.2
31-40 55 58.5
41-above 37 39.3
Total 96 100
Mean (x) 38.94 Commented [HP5]: Provide the mean score for the ages

Source: Field survey, 2019

4.1.2: Gender distribution of tomato producers

The sex distribution of the respondents is given in Table 2. The result shows that 92.48%

of the respondents are male while 7.52% of them are female. This suggests that tomato farming is

a male dominated activity. While low women participation may be due to socio-cultural barriers

affecting involvement of women in agricultural activities in Nigeria. Commented [HP6]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
Table 2: Gender distribution of tomato producers

Gender Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

Male 88 92.48

Female 8 7.52

Total 96 100

Source: Field survey, 2019

4.1.3: Household size of tomato producers

From Table 3 below it is shown that 40.41% of the respondents have a household size

ranging between 1-3 people, 55.33% having a household size of 4-6 2.13%, 7-10 people as family

size and also 2.13% have a household size of 10-above. The result indicates that majority 55.33% Commented [HP7]: What is the average family size

of the respondents in the study area with an average mean of 4.07 years. Which may be an

advantage in terms of supply of labour for tomato production. According to Akinsanmi et al. (2005), Commented [HP8]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
cooperatives are a vehicle for development since they provide informal credit to farmers. Members of the

cooperative, ceteris paribus, are likely to perform better than non-members because of possible economies

of scale. Commented [HP9]: Not in accordance with the result

please…. Your result is on household size not om
Table 3: Distribution of tomato producers by their family size cooperative please. You should therefore recast

Family size (Number) Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

1–3 39 40.41

4–6 53 55.33

7 – 10 2 2.13

11 – above 2 2.13

Total 96 100

Mean (x) 4.07 Commented [HP10]: Provide the mean family size
Commented [HP11R10]: Is ok
Source: Field survey, 2019
4.1.4: Distribution of tomato producers according to their marital status.

Table 4 shows that 24.49% of the respondents are single, 71.56% were married while 3.95%

of the respondents were widowed. This result indicates that majority (71.56%) of tomato farmers

in the study area are married and are actively into tomato production as a means of livelihood to

care and carter for their family needs, such as shelter, food, clothing, education and healthcare. Commented [HP12]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
Table 4.4: Distribution of tomato producers according to their marital status

Marital Status Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

Single 22 24.49

Married 70 71.56

Widowed 4 3.95

Total 96 100

Source: Field survey, 2019

4.1.5: Educational attainment of tomato producers

Table 5 shows that 18.26% of the respondents had no formal education, 31.8% had primary

school education, and 41.2% attended secondary school education whereby 8.74% only attended

tertiary institution. This shows that a majority (41.2%) of the farmers in the study area attended

secondary school. This implies that farmers may be responsive to the challenges of new technology

in the study area. This result is consistent with the findings by Babalola et al. (2010).

Table 5: Distribution of tomato producers according to level of education attained

Level Education Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

Non- formal 19 18.26

Primary 30 31.8

Secondary 40 41.2

Tertiary institution 7 8.74

Total 96 100

Source: Field survey, 2019

4.1.6: Distribution of tomato producers by their primary occupation

Table 6 shows that 77.4% of the respondents in the study have farming as their primary

occupation 4.3% were artisan, 14.0% were traders, and 4.3% civil servant. The result indicated that

majority of the respondents in the study area farmers this may be because other occupations like

Trading, civil servant, and even housewives may not have the required time that tomato farming

demand. Commented [HP13]: Relate your findings with others and

state the implication
Table 6: Distribution of tomato producers by

Main Occupation Frequency Percentage (%)

Farming 74 77.4

Artisan 4 4.3

Trading 15 14.0

Civil servant 4 4.3

Total 96 100

Source: Field survey, 2019

4.1.9: Years of farming experience of tomato producers

Table 9 shows the farming experience of the tomato farmers in the study area. 37.3% of the

respondents have been in to tomato farming for 1-3 years, 11.7% for 4-6 years, 43.7% for about 7-

10 years and 7.3% for 10-above years. This indicates that a higher percentage of 43.7% of the

respondents have been in to tomato farming for a mean average of 6.55 years. Commented [HP14]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
Table 9: Farming experience distribution of the respondents

Years of farming experience Frequency Percentage % n = 96

1–3 30 37.3

4–6 22 11.7

7 – 10 32 43.7

11 – above 12 7.3

Total 96 100

Mean (x) 6.55 Commented [HP15]: What is the mean years of farming
experience?
Source: Field survey, 2019 Commented [BK16R15]:
Commented [HP17R15]: Is ok
4.1.10: Distribution of tomato producers based on their farm size

Table 10 shows the distribution of the respondents’ farm size. 68.32% of the respondents

in the cultivate 0.50 hectares and 31.68% cultivates 1.0 hectares. This indicates that majority of the

farmers in the study area cultivate 0.50 hectares this may be because each farmer in the study area

as a matter of policy had been allocated a plot of 0.5 hectares but some were able to acquire double

plots on different locations. Commented [HP18]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
Table 10: Distribution of tomato producers based on their farm size

Farm size (hectares) Frequency Percentage (%) n = 96

0.5 63 68.32

1.0 33 31.68

Total 96 100

Mean (x) 0.67 Commented [HP19]: What is the mean score

Commented [HP20R19]: Ok, but captured in the text
Source: Field survey, 2019
4.2 Average Cost and Return per Hectare.

Table 11 showed the profitability analysis of tomato production among the respondents.

The average gross revenue per hectare generated by tomato farmers in the study area was ₦ 307,

212.12 in the rainy season and ₦ 553,674.22 during dry season respectively, while the total average

cost of production incurred during the production was ₦ 196,862.06 in both season. The average

gross margin per hectare therefore were ₦ 124,419.26 in the dry season and ₦ 110,350.06 in the

rainy season respectively. Hired labour, family consumption, loading, offloading and

transportation, as well as fertilizer accounted for 64.71% of the total variable costs. This is in line

with Adenuga et al. (2013) that dry season tomato production is a profitable venture with a gross

margin of of N18,956.75/ha per farmer. This also collaborates with Usman & Bakari (2013) who

reported that average revenue of tomato production was a profitable venture. The implication of

this result is that considering the economic situation of the country, people can take advantage of

this venture and produce tomato as their primary occupation.

The farm gross ratio was 0.36 during rainy season and 0.22 in the dry season respectively,

the ratio showed that the total farm cost was about 7.8% of the gross revenue which is in line with

Olukosi & Erhabor (2008) which states that a gross ratio of less than one is desirable for any farm

business. Therefore, based on the information in table 11, it is obvious that tomato production was

a profitable venture in the study area.

Table 11: Gross margin analysis/ha of tomato production in Yamatu-Deba LGA Commented [HP21]: Merge the two tables as one please;
as follows;
Items Dry season Rainy Season
...

Variable costs Quantity Amount (₦) % of TC Quantity Amount (₦) % of TC

Fertilizer 200 kg 21,969.24 11.15 200(kg) 21,969.24 11.15

Seeds 25 kg 5,713.29 2.90 25(kg) 5,713.29 2.90

Agrochemicals 8 litres 20,019.62 10.17 8(L) 20,019.62 10.17

Land clearance, ???? 34,756.86 17.66 34,756.86 17.66

fencing and
ridging
Hired labour ??? 48,418.56 24.60 ??? 48,418.56 24.60

Loading, ???? 22,250.03 11.30 ??? 22,250.03 11.30

offloading and
transportation
Empty basket ??? 28,500.92 14.48 ??? 28,500.92 14.48

Total variable 181,628.52 92.26 181,628.52 92.26

cost

Fixed cost
Depreciation of 15,233.54 7.74 15,233.54 7.74
fixed assets
Total fixed cost 15,233.54 7.74 15,233.54 7.74

Total costs 196,862.06 100 196,862.06 100

Returns
Total Revenue ???? 553,674.22 ???? 307,212.12
Gross Margin
Net Income Commented [HP22]: Use the following formulae to find
Gross ratio (NI = net income; Gm = gross margin; GR = gross ratio; OR =
operating ratio; FR = fixed ratio; and Returns per naira
Operating ratio invested)
Fixed ratio NI = TR – TR
Returns/ naira GM = TR – TVC
GR = TC/TR
Source: Field survey, 2019
OR = TVC/TR
FR = FC/TR
Returns per naira = NI/TC

Make sure you capture the ratios correctly in the discussion

4.3 Paired T-test Analysis Commented [HP23]: Discuss the table

Paired Samples Test

Paired Differences

95% Confidence Interval

of the Difference
Std. Std. Error Sig. (2-
Mean Deviation Mean Lower Upper t df tailed)

Pair 1 Dry season – Rainy 1.30266

1.64327E5 1.16196E5 -1.34615E6 1.60668E6 1.121 1 .464
season E5
4.4: Constraints faced by Tomato Producers Commented [HP24]: Ensure that the figures tally with
those in the table 12
Table 12 shows that 28.7% of the respondents faced the problem of inadequate capital, this

is in line with the study by Usman and Bakari, (2013), who reported inadequate capital hinders tomato

farmers from expanding their business.32.4% were faced with the problem of pest and diseases,

10.1% were faced with the problem of high cost of production. This is in line with the report of Afolami

(2002) noted high input cost among tomato farmers in Ogun State 8.0% of the farmers are faced with

the problem of poor storage as tomato is a perishable agricultural commodity that requires good

storage capacity. However, 1.60% of the respondents faced a problem of fatigue since there are dry

season tomato farmers as dry season farming involves a lot of stress. About 11.2% faced the

challenge of rainfall. This indicates that majority of tomato farmers in the study area faces a major

challenge of inadequate capital, pest and diseases, and rainfall. Commented [HP25]: Relate your findings with others and
state the implication
Table 12: Constraints faced by the tomato producers

Problems Frequency Percentage (%) Rank

Inadequate Capital 25 28.7 2

Pest and diseases 31 32.4 1

High cost of production 11 10.1 4

Rainfall 12 11.2 3

Poor storage 7 8.0 5

High transport cost 7 8.0 6

Fatigue 3 1.6 7

Total 96 100

Source: Field survey, 2019

 CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Summary

This research has examined the profitability of tomato production in Yamaltu Deba Local

Government area of Gombe state Nigeria. The objectives of the research were to describe the

socioeconomic characteristics of tomato producers in the study area, determine cost and returns in

tomato production (both Dry and Rainy season) in the study area, assess difference in farmers’

income due to seasonality in production in the study area; and Identify and describe constraints to

tomato production in the study area. The results showed that majority 92.48% of the respondent

(tomato producers) are male, while 7.52% are female, range of 31-40 years of age which constituted

58.5% of the tomato producers with 71.56% of them married; most 55.33% of the farmers have a

family size of 4-6 people. 41.2% of them have attended secondary school. Results further shows

that 43.7% of the respondent have more than 8 years of experience in tomato production. Also

majority (68.32%) percent of the farmers cultivate on a farm size of about 0.50hectares. Majority

(77.4%) of the producers having farming as their primary occupation.

The gross margin analysis showed that tomato production is a profitable venture in the area

with a gross margin profit of N110,350.06/ha in the rainy season and N124,419.26/ha during dry

season respectively. This research also revealed that majority 32.4% of the farmers face the major

problem of pest and diseases and others such as inadequate capital which constitutes a sizeable

percentage about 28.7% and also poor storage facilities some indicated fatigue as part of the

problems they face.

5.2 Conclusion

The study has Assess the profitability of tomato production in Yameltu Deba Local

Government Area of Gombe State. Results from the analysis show that both rainy and dry season

tomato production is economically viable business in the study area considering the profit margin

of N115, 952.22 and N331, 414.32 per hectare respectively.

5.3 Recommendations

On the basis of the findings of this study, the following recommendations were proffered:

i) Since tomato farmers are faced with problems of pest and diseases, government and

non-governmental agencies should provide the necessary pesticides at a more

subsidized rate for the farmers, so as to boost the productivity levels in terms of

output and income for the farmers.

ii) Tomato production is profitable and by reason of that people should be encouraged

through extension service delivery to go in to tomato production as it will help

generate income for farmers and being a highly demanded commodity worldwide it

will help boost the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country.

iii) Governments and other lending agencies should provide accessible loans and credit

facilities to tomato farmers in the study area to help ameliorate the problem of lack

of capital’

iv) The problem of poor storage facilities should be taken care of by the ADPs. Tomato

being a perishable commodity with little shelf life government should provide a

conventional storage means for excess yields of tomato since perish ability greatly

affect sales and revenues of the farmers.

 REFERENCES
Adenuga A. H., A. M. Lawal, O. A. Rotimi, (2013). Economics and Technical Efficiency of Dry Season
Tomato Production in Selected Areas in Kwara State, Nigeria. Agris on-line Papers in
Economics and Informatics. Vol. 5, Pp.11-18.
Adebayo, A.A. and Tukur A.L (eds.) (1999) Climate “I and II” in Adamawa State in Maps, Paraclete
Publisher, Yola Pp20-26.
Adegeye, A.Y and Dittoh, J.S (1982). Essentials of Agricultural Economics, 1st edition, impact publisher
Ibadan Nigeria. Pp63-73.
Adenuga A .H, A. Muhammad-Lawal, O. A. Rotimi, (2013). Economics and Technical Efficiency of
Commented [HP26]: The referencing must follow the
APA style; recast please
Commented [HP27R26]: Still not correct please. The
referencing must follow APA format. Go to department or
school library to get relevant materials that could guide
through.
Commented [HP28]: Ensure all authors in the reference
are cited in the text
Commented [HP29]: Ensure all authors cited in the text
are acknowledge in the reference section

Dry Season Tomato Production in Selected Areas in Kwara State, Nigeria. Agris on-line
Papers in Economics and Informatics vol (5) pp.1-2
Afolami C.A, and Ayinde I.A, (2001) Economics Of Tomato Production IN Yewa North Local
Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. African Journals online, Agro-Science Vol2 (1)
2001: pp. 17-23.
Ajagbe, B. O., Oyediran, W. O., Omoare, A. M. and Sofowora, O. O., (2014) assessment of post-harvest
practices among tomato (solanum lycopersicum) farmers/processors in abeokuta north local
government area of ogun state, Nigeria. International Journal of Education and Research. Pp
7-15
Akosim, C.I.O., Tella, and Jatau,D.F.,(1997). Vegetable and forest resource. Paraclete publishers, Yola –
Nigeria, pp.32 – 33.
Engindeniz S, (2007). Economic analysis of processing tomato growing:the case study of Torbali, west
TurkeyInstituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA) Spanish
Journal of Agricultural Research 5:7-15 Available online at www.inia.es/sjar
Erdogan G (2007). The econometric analysis of tomatoproduction with contracting in Turkey. Journal of
Applied science, 7(14):1981-1984.
Fateh MM (2009). Structure and efficiency analysis of vegetable production and marketing in Sindh,
Pakistan. Unpublished PhD Thesis in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sindh
Agriculture University, Tando Jam.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO (2006): Production year book, Vol.60,
Italy
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO (2007): Production year book, Vol.61,
Italy
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAOSTAT: Production-Crops, 2012a data.
Girei, A. A., Dire, B. & Bello, B. H. (2014). Economics of Cattle Marketing on the Socio- economic
Characteristics of Cattle Marketers in Central zone of Adamawa State, Nigeria. International
Journal of Advance Agricultural Research, 2(2):1 – 7.
GOSEEDS (2007). GOSEEDS; Gombe State Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy:
Handbook, Abuja, Dandafid Nig. Ltd.
G.S.G. (2015). Gombe State Government: Profile. Retrieved on 25/12/2017; from:
http://www.tiptopglobe.com/cities_nigeria?region=55&n=Gombe&a=G
Food and Agricultural Organization, FAO (2006). More fruits and vegetables. Accessed online at
www.unfao.com/spotlight/archive. july 24, 2009.
Olukosi, J.O., & Erhabor, P.O. (2005). Introduction to Farm Management Economics, Principles and
Application, Agitab publishers Limited, Zaria.
National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) and Federal Department of
Agricultural Extension (FDAE) (2014). Agricultural Performance Survey Report of 2014 Wet
 Season in Nigeria. NAERLS, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. NAERLS Press. ISSN: 2408 –
7459. 206Pp.
Usman, J. and Bakar, U.M. (2013). Profitability of Small Scale Dry Season Tomato (Lycopersicon
esculentum Mill.) production in Adamawa States, Nigeria. ARPN Journals of Science and
technology.vol.3. No. 6. ISSN 2225-7217.

Commented [HP30]: I urged you to make the necessary

corrections and re-submit not later than Friday the 11th
October, 2019
Commented [HP31]: Note that time is not on our side
please
Commented [HP32]: t-test analysis not available please
Commented [HP33]: Once you are done; update your
power slides; change the future tenses to past tenses;
include new slides to contain your tables (results);
summary, conclusion and recommendations
Commented [HP34]: Prepare the preliminary pages as
well to include all the components
Commented [HP35]: Prepare the table of contents, list of
tables, list of appendices etc