Challenges of millet and sorghum value chain actors in Jigawa State, Nigeria

The study examined the socioeconomic characteristics and challenges faced by millet and sorghum value chain actors in Jigawa State Nigeria. Two LGAs were randomly selected from each of the three senatorial zones in the state and 300 structured questionnaires were administered, 50 per LGA. There were different set of questionnaire for each of the four value chain actors comprising input dealers (60), producers (120), processors (60) and marketers (60). Key Informant Interview (KII) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were also employed to generate additional information from the respondents. Simple descriptive statistics was used for the analysis using Eviews 9. The study discovered that lack of capital was the main challenge across the four value chains. Other problems identified included lack of training, unstable price, lack of fertilizer, drought, lack of equipment and bad debt. To overcome these challenges the study recommends adequate information on how to access bank loan and management training should be provided to the actors, fertilizer should be made available at official rate, irrigation and water resources should be developed to minimize the impact of drought, and linkages with industries to minimize excessive price fluctuations.