Empowering Rural Women through Small Scale Agro-Processing: The Potential in Maize Flour Processing in Niger State, Nigeria

This study investigated the potential of maize flour processing to empower rural women in Niger State, Nigeria. Multistage random sampling was used collect data using a questionnaire, budgetary analysis method utilized for analysis. Seventy-three (73) respondent processors were drawn study. Furthermore, descriptive statistics also organize and present collected. Findings revealed that local by area is profitable, therefore an economic empowerment strategy. The processors’ gross margin net return estimated at N14,250 N11,990 respectively. Hence, from analysis, it apparent enterprise has providing means livelihood area. identified lack preservatives high moisture content flour, good storage facility, frequent contamination lubricants during milling as constraints. focused on agro-processing production. It confirmed