Demand for Mechanization service in Food Crop Production in Oyo State, Nigeria.
Keywords:
demand, mechanization, service, food crop, productionAbstract
The demand for mechanization service by food-crops' farmers in Oyo State of Nigeria, was studied. It was found that the demand was heaviest in April' May, Agust and September which are the preparatory montic for cultivation in each growing season. The quantity of mechanization service demanded declined by 28% in 1979 when compared to 1978.
Mechanization showed a cost advantage over manual operation. One hectare of manually-cultivated land costs N100.00. but costs N6.00 with mechanical cultivation. It is suggested that the government should educate farmers on this benefit, and train more tractor operators and tractor mechanics to ensure a smooth execution of a mechanization programme.
