ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to undertake a comparative analysis of the administration of agricultural credit to poultry farmers by microfinance banks and cooperative societies in Anambra State Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used for the study. The study was conducted using primary data through the administration of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as, means, percentage and frequency and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. In the poultry farming, a distinct gender imbalance is observed, with 86% of Cooperative sector farmers being males, while in the Microfinance sector, the male representation stood at 72.5%. Age distribution among Cooperative sector farmers spans a wide range, averaging at 52.0 years, In contrast, the farmers that obtained credit form Microfinance are predominantly comprised of individuals aged between 41 and 50 years. Marital status among Cooperative sector farmers reveal stability, with 90.7% being married. Cooperative sector households range from smaller (<= 5.00 members) to moderately larger (6.00 - 8.00 members), averaging at 5 members. Microfinance sector households, although relatively smaller (average of 5 members). Cooperative sector farmers enjoy efficient loan processes, expressed through shorter waiting times (8 days), clear communication, and quicker disbursement, leading to high satisfaction levels. In contrast, Microfinance applicants face delays, with significantly longer waiting times (14 days). Farmers in the Cooperative sector expressed higher satisfaction in various aspects, including waiting times, communication clarity, loan processing duration, interest rates, and collateral requirements, indicating a more favorable environment for their agricultural pursuits. Constraints faced by farmers shed light on challenges. Both sectors encounter common issues like lack of collateral and limited access to credit. However, the Microfinance sector experienced more severe challenges, including high interest rates, lengthy loan approval processes, insufficient loan amounts, lack of farmer support, and inflexible repayment terms. Cooperative sector's efficient queue management (mean = 9.64) contrasts sharply with Microfinance sector's slower processes (mean = 12.55). This distinction emphasizes the Cooperative sector's streamlined approach, which, coupled with high satisfaction levels and fewer severe constraints, solidifies its position as a more favorable option for poultry farmers, ensuring smoother access to essential financial resources and support for their agricultural endeavors.
