The economy of palm oil production and marketing in Igala land

Abstract

Palm trees constituted one of the major tree crops found in Igala land. They were found in abundance and naturally grow like every other wild forest trees in addition to the ones planted by individuals, families and government agencies. Palm oil processing and marketing constituted one of the major occupations of the people as men, women and even the young ones were involved. Apart from its roles as income earning venture, it also added to the nutritional values of foods consumed by individuals and families. Its production and sales helped in building up serious interactions and inter community’s relations between the Igala and various ethnic groups that frequented the markets of the area thereby encouraging inter-group relations among neighbouring communities. This paper attempts a historical narration of the economy of palm oil production and marketing in Igala land.