Fertilizer−MFertilizer−manure substitution among arable crop farmers in Akwa Ibom state: empirical evidence

Abstract

The study estimated the constant elasticity of substitution of fertilizer for manure in arable crop production in Akwa Ibom State. The approximation of the generalized constant elasticity of substitution (CES) model using Taylor’s expansion series yielded a linear equation that was estimated using OLS method. The CES parameters were estimated through a system of coefficients relationship and were later used to calculate the constant elasticity of substitution for each crop enterprise. Empirical results revealed that, waterleaf has constant elasticity of substitution less than unity: while pumpkin and maize had constant elasticity of substitution greater than unity. Increased supply of fertiliser and repackage extension services were recommended as these would help to increase fertiliser use as well as growth rate of crops in the state.

KEY WORDS: Arable Crop, Elasticity, Fertiliser, Manure, Substitution