HUMAN DEVELOPMEN

This study assessed the Human Development Index (HDI) of mango farmers in Esan South-East Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, with a focus on their socioeconomic characteristics, income sources, constraints, and the contribution of mango farming to household welfare. Using a two stage sampling procedure, 94 mango farmers were surveyed through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, Likert-scale analysis, and the UNDP HDI methodology were employed for data
analysis. Results revealed a predominantly male (72.3%), middle-aged (mean 45years) farming population with moderate education (mean 9 years) and experience (mean 18 years). Mango farming was the primary income source (mean ₦297,414.89 annually), contributing 38.21% to household welfare, particularly in savings, food, and education. The estimated HDI was 0.665 (medium), with high longevity (0.862), low education (0.503), and medium standard of living (0.681). Major constraints included poor road networks (mean 3.81), high input costs (3.66), and postharvest losses (3.59). Findings align with studies showing that human development indices significantly influence agricultural output in Nigeria, where investments in health and education yield long-term productivity gains. The study recommends enhanced extension services, credit access, and infrastructure development to improve mango farmers’ HDI and livelihoods