Abstract

The research was conducted in Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State to carry out economic analysis of traditional processing of African Locus Bean Seed (ALBS). Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 100 respondents from 4 wards within the study area. Primary data were collected from the processors with the use of well structure questionnaires. The data collected were analysed with descriptive statistics, budgetary analysis and profitability analysis such as gross ratio, operating ratio and return per capital invested. The results showed that females (74.49%) dominated the processing of ALBS, married with active age of 41-50 years and household size of 11-15 members. They are educated and having 6-10 years of experience.  The result of budgetary analysis showed that the processing of ALBS is profitable with net profit margin of N28,990.80 per respondent per month. The profitability analysis revealed that the ALBS processing is a viable and worthwhile venture to embark upon by the adults and youths. The major constraints of ALBS processing were low technology (94.90%), insecurity (92.86%), inadequate capital (90.82%), high cost of locust bean seeds (84.69%), felling/ burning of locust bean trees (82.65%), high transportation cost (82.65%) and low patronage (78.57%). The study concluded that the processors should increase their operations from small scale to medium and large scale by processing more ALBS to earn more profit.

Key Words: ALBS, Budgetary Profitability, Analysis, Net profit