Analysis of Beef Value Chain Competitiveness and Market Linkages in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

The beef value chain in North Central Nigeria involves a complex network of pastoralists, cattle traders, abattoir operators, and retail butchers, with significant implications for regional food supply and livelihoods. In Plateau State, persistent insecurity and market disruptions have added layers of complexity to beef value chain management and competitiveness. This study analysed beef value chain competitiveness and market linkages in Plateau State. Value chain mapping was conducted through interviews with 30 pastoralists, 20 cattle traders, 15 abattoir operators, and 25 retail butchers selected across three major beef market nodes. Porter's value chain competitiveness framework and marketing margin analysis were applied. Results revealed a fragmented value chain with limited vertical integration and multiple informal market intermediaries extracting disproportionate margins. Abattoir hygiene and quality control deficiencies reduced product value for premium market channels. Farmers and pastoralists received approximately 44 percent of final consumer retail prices. Market linkages between rural cattle producers and urban processors were primarily informal and susceptible to insecurity-related disruptions. The study recommends investing in formal cattle marketing infrastructure and supporting the formation of pastoralist marketing associations to improve producer bargaining. Quality certification and cold chain investment for urban beef retail are also priorities. Keywords: beef value chain, competitiveness, market linkages, Plateau State, pastoralists.