Examining the Determinants of Export Non-Performance Among Agricultural Commodity Traders in Benue State

This study examines the determinants of export non-performance among agricultural commodity traders in Benue State, often referred to as the food basket of Nigeria due to its abundant production of yams, soybeans, sesame seeds, and citrus fruits. Despite its agricultural richness, Benue State contributes minimally to Nigeria's formal agricultural export earnings, suggesting systemic barriers that prevent producers and traders from accessing international markets. The study employs a descriptive survey research design, collecting data from 110 commodity traders, farmers, and agricultural cooperative officers across Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo through structured questionnaires. Data are analysed using frequency distribution, percentages, and logistic regression to identify significant predictors of export non-performance. The study investigates factors including poor post-harvest handling, inadequate quality certification, lack of export financing, limited market information, and weak linkages with international buyers. The theoretical framework draws on the resource-based view and export barriers theory. Findings are expected to indicate that quality standards non-compliance and absence of international buyer networks are the most critical deterrents to export engagement. The research recommends the establishment of commodity aggregation centres with export processing facilities, expansion of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council's outreach to North Central states, and development of farmer-trader export cooperatives. This study adds to the scarce literature on agricultural export constraints in Nigeria's food-producing regions and provides practical insights for commodity development policy. Keywords: export non-performance, agriculture, commodity trade, Benue State, export barriers