From profitability to sustainability: A comprehensive analysis of tractor services in Nigeria's agricultural landscape
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Abstract
This study focuses on examining the economic challenges and profitability factors associated with tractor services in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on various management systems, repair and maintenance costs and key factors affecting specific tractor models. The study uses a systematic search strategy and relies on Google Scholar, accessed via Harzing's Publish or Perish software. A comprehensive literature search from 1973 to 2023 identifies 20 relevant articles that address the factors affecting tractor profitability, the impact of management systems, and the dynamics of repair and maintenance costs. The results show that private property management systems have higher efficiency and profitability compared to tractor rental systems. The age of tractors, driver experience and training further add to the complexity of tractor management. Conflicting and consistent results highlight the diversity of tractor management in Nigeria and require tailored strategies for economic efficiency and sustainability. A comparative analysis of different tractor models shows that repair and maintenance costs are influenced by factors such as age, spare parts costs, operator skills and preventative maintenance practices. The complexity of maintenance dynamics highlights the need for differentiated approaches to minimizing costs for specific tractor models. The implications of these results highlight the importance of proper maintenance practices, economic considerations, and operational factors in optimizing tractor services. Policymakers, researchers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector can benefit from these insights to formulate targeted strategies to improve tractor efficiency and sustainability. Future research avenues include a deeper examination of the challenges and benefits of cooperative management systems, the evolving technological landscape in agricultural mechanization, and the role of government interventions in addressing food insecurity through efficient tractor management.
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