OICC Press International Journal of Agricultural Management and Development 2159-5860 15 2 2025 06 30 Economics of Small Ruminant Husbandry and Marketing among Small-Holder Farmers in Abia State 10.57647/ijamad.2025.1502.09 EN Blessing Ada Ahamefule Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria Paschal Nwadike Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria Olochi Ubani Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria Journal Article 2025 06 30 This study examined the economic and marketing efficiency of small ruminant production in Isiala-Ngwa North L.G.A. of Abia State. A multistage sampling method was used to select 80 smallholder farmers across eight villages. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, farm budget models, marketing margin analysis, an regression analysis. Results showed that 50% of respondents raised goats, while 46% kept both goats and sheep, with most practicing a semi-intensive management system. The average total production cost over eight months was ₦598,224.20, with an average revenue of ₦1,257,778.00, yielding a net income of ₦659,553.60. Profitability indicators included a benefit-cost ratio of 2.10, an operating cost ratio of 0.43, and a return on investment (ROI) of 1.10. However, marketing inefficiencies were evident, as farmers retained only 44.66% of the consumer price. Major constraints included limited veterinary services, poor infrastructure, lack of credit access, and market information asymmetry. Socio-economic factors such as age, education, access to extension services, and cooperative membership significantly influenced profitability. The study recommends improving infrastructure, establishing market information systems, and promoting farmer cooperatives to strengthen the small ruminant value chain and support rural development in Abia State and similar regions.