The influence of coordination and cooperation strategies on profitability of cassava processing farmers’ organizations in Kogi and Nasarawa states, Nigeria

This study examined the influence of coordination and cooperation strategies on the profitability of cassava processing farmers' organizations in Kogi and Nasarawa States, Nigeria. Specific objectives included describing the socio-economic characteristics of members and non-members, assessing the profitability of cassava processing across both groups, and determining differences in income generation between members and non-members. Using a multistage random sampling technique and the Taro Yamane formula, 456 respondents were selected. Primary data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, benefit-cost ratio, and Z-test at a 5% significance level. Findings revealed that females dominated cassava processing in both states, comprising 80% and 75% of members and non-members respectively in Kogi State, and 80% and 70% in Nasarawa State. Members of farmers' organizations demonstrated higher educational attainment, with 85% and 80% holding combinations of primary, secondary, and tertiary qualifications in Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively, compared to non-members where only 40–45% attained primary education. Members also recorded significantly higher profitability, with benefit-cost ratios of 1:13 and 1:12 in Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively, outperforming non-members who recorded ratios of 1:12 and 1:11. Z-test results confirmed significant differences in income generation, with z-calculated values of 10.72 and 7.45 exceeding the z-tabulated values of 1.966 and 1.976 in Kogi and Nasarawa States respectively. The study concludes that organizational membership significantly enhances income and productivity, and recommends intensified extension services to encourage non-member participation in farmers' organizations.