Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the socio-economic characteristics of meat processors and their perception of abattoirs management in Ogun State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were administered in four geo-political zones of Ogun State. Two registered, approved and functional abattoirs were selected from each zone and 15 questionnaires were administered to assess the age, sex, level of education, religious affiliation, marital status, annual income of meat processors, as well as their ratings of meat inspection and abattoirs conditions. Data collected were analysed with the aid of descriptive statistics that included frequencies and percentages. The results showed that majority (39.2%) of abattoir workers were young secondary school leavers (36.7%), who are married (35.0%) and are Muslims by religion (49.2%), had access to fund (38.3%) were engaged in meat processing at abattoirs in Ogun State. The majority of the abattoir workers (37.5%) employed in assessed abattoirs in Ogun state, were considered as fair due to inadequate facilities, unhygienic practices and maintenance. It was recommended that government should take proper, prompt, adequate and regular care of the abattoirs and pay compensations to meat processors whose meat were condemned so that wholesome and safe meat would be produced for public consumption in Ogun State.