OBOGHABOR UWAYEMWEN MIRACLE

This study analyzed the profitability of maize production in Orhionwon Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The research specifically examined the socio - economic characteristics of maize farmers, estimated production costs and returns, identified factors influencing profitability, and documented constraints faced by producers. A multi - stage sampling technique was employed to select 100 cassava farmers from five major farming communities in the local government area. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Gross margin analysis, multiple regression analysis and likert scale ranking. Findings revealed that maize production in the area is dominated by small - scale farmers with 43% respondents between 19-40 years, 40% within 41-60 years and 17% above 60, with 52% male and 48% female, average farm size of 1.9 hectares, and relatively high educational attainment. Budgetary analysis showed the enterprise to be profitable with a gross margin of N617,702.44 and net profit of N544,730.44, Regression results identified farm size, yield and fertilizer cost as significant positive determinants of profitability, Major production constraints included insecurity, high labor costs, insufficient funds. This study concludes that maize production remains a profitable enterprise in the study area. Recommendations include improve access to quality inputs, enhance 16 extension services, stabilize market prices andencourage youth participation. These interventions would significantly improve the income generation potential of maize production for smallholder farmers in the region