EVALUATION OF THE NIGERIAN SERICULTURE INDUSTRY

Abstract

This study evaluates the Nigerian sericulture industry with emphasis on its level of development, institutional support, challenges, and future prospects. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, employing a mixed-methods approach to generate both quantitative and qualitative data. Primary data were collected from 300 respondents drawn from six states (Kaduna, Enugu, Osun, Plateau, Borno, and Abia) using structured questionnaires and interviews. The respondents comprised sericulture farmers, extension agents, government officials, researchers, and cooperative members. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were used, while data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tools.Findings reveal high awareness of sericulture (87%) among respondents; however, actual participation across the value chain remains low. Only 41.3% of respondents cultivated mulberry, 36.7% engaged in silkworm rearing, and just 18.7% were involved in silk processing, indicating weak value addition. Government support and extension services were perceived as inadequate, with over 70% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction with policy implementation and access to credit. Major constraints identified include lack of technical training, poor funding, absence of improved silkworm breeds, inadequate processing facilities, and weak extension services.Despite these challenges, the industry shows strong prospects, particularly in rural job creation, women empowerment, export promotion, and textile value addition. The study concludes that sericulture in Nigeria remains underdeveloped but possesses significant potential for economic diversification and rural development. It recommends increased government and private sector investment, targeted training programs, improved access to credit, revitalization of pilot farms, and establishment of processing centers and cooperative clusters to enhance sustainable growth of the industry.