Perceptions of Factors Affecting Adoption of Sustainable Agricultural Practices Among Cassava Farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed factors affecting adoption of sustainable agricultural practices among cassava farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire and responses recorded during focus group discussion. A total of 100 farmers were selected for the study using multi-stage sampling technique. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings revealed that majority (55.0%) of the respondents were female while 45.0% were male. A greater per cent (39.2%) of the respondents were within their productive age bracket of 40-50 years with mean age of 38.4 years. With regards to factors affecting adoption of the sustainable agricultural practices, only four (4) variables out of ten (10 variables) showed high hindering constraints. These were; lack of awareness (x?=3.75) inadequate organic materials (x? = 3.66), lack of technical know- how (x? = 3.31) and non-credit facilities ((x? = 3.01). Logit regression analysis revealed that age and years of farming experience were the major constraints. The study recommended need for capacity building by training and re-training of extension workers and farmers organizations to work towards increasing farmer’s awareness on the importance of SAP in order to increase their productivity.