The study examined specific issues relating to palm oil processing enterprises in Edo State. Using rapid rural appraisal, data were collected from palmoil processors/millers, supplemented with individual and group interviews with palm oil milling equipment fabricators. The respondents of the study were sampled from the three agro-ecological zones in the State, specifically, from three local governments (LGs) in Edo north zone, four LGs in Edo central zone and five LGs in Edo south zone. Data collected usingthe validated questionnaires were analysed using frequency, mean and graphs. Qualitative responses obtained from interview sessions i.e.,FGDs and key informant interviews were used to elaborate on the quantitative data obtained. The study’s key findings are that most mill owners were male (67.3%) while the majority of mill users were female (63.6%). The prevalent milling equipment used by the respondents was the traditional mill i.e. vertical digester+manual screw press (90.9%), which was largely sourced from local fabricators (56.3%). The use of this equipment is plagued with several challenges: In addition to the low yield of palm oil, is the constant breakdown and high maintenance cost. The paper recommends the promotion of awareness of NIFOR SSPE among millers through sponsored seminars, practical demonstrations of the SSPE and increased access to funds through the formation of groups and linking them to credit institutions.

Keywords : processors/millers, finance, productivity, constraints.