Determinants of Technical Efficiency in Improved Indigenous Poultry Production: A Stochastic Frontier Analysis in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study used a stochastic frontier model to examine the factors that influence technical efficiency in enhanced indigenous poultry production in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Using a multistage sampling technique, primary data were gathered from 120 poultry farmers who were sampled. To estimate production efficiency and determine the socioeconomic factors influencing efficiency, the stochastic frontier approach was utilized. While other factors like flock size and breed type were not significant, the results showed that technical efficiency was significantly increased by purchased feeds, labor input, veterinary expenses, energy, and poultry housing. There is significant room for productivity improvement, as evidenced by the efficiency score distribution, which revealed that 51.7% of farmers operated within the 0.41–0.50 efficiency range and only 9.1% achieved efficiency above 0.71. Additionally, inefficiency was greatly decreased by having access to extension and credit services, while inefficiency was increased by being farther from input markets. Interestingly, local breeds were more adaptable to local conditions than improved breeds, as evidenced by their decreased inefficiency. The study finds that increasing efficiency requires better market access, institutional support, and resource management. In order to increase production and food security, it suggests bolstering credit programs, extension services, and infrastructure development while encouraging breeding initiatives that incorporate the adaptive qualities of regional and improved breeds.