Analysis of the Productivity and Profitability of Improved Cowpea Varieties Adoption in Jigawa State, North West Nigeria

Cowpea improvement research has produced a series of high-yielding, pest-resistant varieties with significant potential to raise farm incomes and improve household nutrition in northern Nigeria. In Jigawa State, where cowpea is a central crop in smallholder rotations, adoption of these improved varieties has been promoted through the National Agricultural Development Fund and related programmes. However, farm-level productivity and profitability analyses comparing improved to local varieties in this context remain limited. This study analysed the productivity and profitability of improved cowpea variety adoption in Jigawa State using data from 210 cowpea farming households. A switching regression model was applied to estimate yield and profitability differentials between adopters and non-adopters while controlling for selection bias. Results revealed that improved variety adopters achieved yields on average 41 percent higher than non-adopters, driven primarily by superior pest resistance and early maturity. Gross margin analysis showed that adopters earned approximately N64,000 more per hectare per season. However, adoption was constrained by limited access to certified seed, particularly among smaller and more remote farms. Extension contact and participation in variety trial demonstrations were strong positive adoption predictors. The study recommends scaling up certified seed distribution networks and embedding cowpea variety trials within community extension programmes in Jigawa State. Keywords: cowpea, improved varieties, adoption, productivity, Jigawa State.