CHALLENGES IN THE SUPPLY CHANGE MANAGEMENT OF PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN AWE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE NIGERIA

This study investigated the challenges affecting the supply chain management of perishable agricultural products in Awe Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 82 farmers and traders through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression techniques. The study examined how socio-economic characteristics and external factors such as climate change, government regulations, and economic conditions influence supply chain performance. Findings revealed that the supply chains for perishables such as tomatoes, peppers, and leafy vegetables are significantly constrained by poor rural road networks, inadequate cold storage facilities, high transportation costs, and reliance on middlemen. Factors including climate variability and rising fuel prices exert a strong influence on supply chain performance. Socio-economic variables such as years of farming experience, cooperative membership, and educational attainment were also found to improve resilience to disruptions. The study concludes that improving perishable supply chains requires integrated interventions: infrastructure investment, affordable credit, strengthened cooperatives, and supportive regulatory frameworks. These findings contribute localized insights into rural supply chain management and provide practical recommendations for enhancing food security, farmer income, and agricultural development in Nigeria.