Determinants of technical efficiency in arable crops production and policy implications in Imo state, Nigeria

This study utilized the stochastic frontier production function to determine technical efficiencyin arable crops production in Imo state, Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used toselect 120 arable crops farmers from which input/output data were collected. Relevant data was collectedwith the aid of a structured and pre-tested questionnaire. The estimated farm level technical efficiencyranged between 0.15 and 0.98 with a mean of 0.67. Critical determinants of technical efficiency of arablecrop farmers were: household size, farming experience, membership of cooperative societies andfrequency of extension agents contact. Higher yield and technical efficiency could be attained by efficientallocation of the employed resources, which is vital to the sustainability of agriculture in Nigeria.