Technical efficiency of moringa oleifera production in Isokan local government area of Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract: Technical efficiency is a prerequisite for allocative or economic efficiency. Economic efficiency is achieved if the highest possible level of satisfaction is obtained from a given resources. The level of technical efficiency of a particular firm is characterised by the relationship between observed production and some ideal or potential production. The moringa plant (Moringa oleifera) is known worldwide for its nutritional and medicinal benefits and industrial uses. Almost every part of the moringa plant has nutritional value. Specifically, the study estimated the profitability of moringa production in the study area; the productivity of the factors involved in moringa production as well as the technical efficiency (TE) of moringa production in the state. The area covered by this study is Isokan Local Government Area of Osun state from which six villages were randomly selected. The town and villages are Olugbin, Aiyepe, Faaru, Alapomu, Sunkade and Maun Kongo. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using descriptive and stochastic frontier analysis. Farmers can increase their efficiency level if they can source their inputs and information as regards farming directly from Osun State Agricultural Development project. An entrepreneurial class of people well motivated and trained to employ an appropriate inputs use combination pattern in order to achieve the highest possible level of production from given resources will also lead to a high level of efficiency