ESTIMATION OF ECONOMIES OF SCALE FOR WATERLEAF (TALINUM TRIANGULARE) FARMS IN CALABAR METROPOLIS, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study examined the economies of scale in waterleaf (Talinum triangulare) farming in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. The research aimed to estimate the effects of input costs, farm size, and labour expenses on profitability among smallholder farmers. Primary data were collected from 80 respondents using structured questionnaires and analysed with descriptive statistics, cost structure analysis, and regression modelling. Findings revealed that waterleaf production is mainly undertaken by women (95%) with low levels of formal education (51.3%). Labour (30.9%) and fertiliser (26.6%) represented the largest shares of variable costs, together accounting for over 57% of total production expenses. Regression results indicated that labour and fertiliser costs had significant negative effects on profitability (p < 0.01). The estimated optimal farm size was 18.3 hectares, compared to the current average of 0.78 hectares, highlighting notable diseconomies of scale. The study concludes that waterleaf farmers operate below the optimal scale and face constraints from high labour costs and limited land. It recommends policies promoting small-scale mechanisation, cooperative land consolidation, access to affordable inputs, and enhanced extension services to boost productivity and profitability.