Evaluation of Market Access Challenges Facing Mango Farmers in Adamawa State

Mango is one of Nigeria's most important fruit crops, widely grown across the North East geopolitical zone where Adamawa State's highlands and river valleys produce distinctive varieties with domestic and export market potential. Despite high production volumes, mango farmers in Adamawa face persistent challenges in accessing remunerative markets, contributing to high post-harvest losses and depressed producer prices. This study evaluates the market access challenges facing mango farmers in Adamawa State and identifies priority intervention areas. Data were collected from 110 mango farmers using structured questionnaires across three local government areas known for mango production. Market access was assessed using a composite index covering proximity to markets, price information access, buyer relationships, and bargaining power. Descriptive statistics and Likert-scale analysis were applied. Results reveal that 73 percent of farmers sell at farm gate to itinerant traders due to lack of transportation, while only 12 percent transport produce directly to urban wholesale markets. Poor road conditions between mango orchards and market centres was the most frequently cited constraint, followed by price information asymmetry favouring buyers. Mango glut during peak season (March to May) depressed prices by 60 to 70 percent relative to off-season prices, and no viable storage or processing alternative was available to the majority of farmers. The study recommends investment in rural feeder roads, development of community mango drying facilities, and linking Adamawa mango farmers to juice processing companies in Jalingo and other regional centres. Keywords: mango, market access, Adamawa State, post-harvest, fruit marketing