Technical Efficiency in Value Addition to Cassava: A Case of Cassava-Garri Processing in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract: The study examined the technical efficiency in garri processing in Lagos State, Nigeria. Data used for the study were obtained using structured questionnaire administered to 100 randomly selected cassava-garri processors in Epe Local Government Areas of the state. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, Likert scale, gross margin analysis, stochastic frontier production function. Findings revealed that majority of the sampled processors were women with mean age of 38.7years. The benefit cost ratio of 1.31 implies that for every ₦1 invested in processing cassava to garri, a return of ₦1.31 and a profit of ₦0.31 were realised. The result of the stochastic frontier analysis revealed that costs of cassava tubers, labour and land had significant influence on garri output while age, gender, household size and membership of cooperative association were the socio-economic attributes determining the technical efficiency of the respondents in the study area. Given the profitability status of the cassava-garri processors in the study area, it can be concluded that cassava-garri processing enterprise is a profitable and viable enterprise which can drive high income generation for the people to earn a living vis-à-vis boast food production and employment opportunities in the study area as well as the state.