Effect of Agricultural Information accessed via social media on Cassava Farmers in Odogbolu Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of agricultural practices accessed via social media on cassava production in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 120 cassava farmers, while primary data were collected using questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and regression. Results showed that 51.7% of the respondents were male with average age of 47.53 years and mean farming experience of 22.60 years. Results also showed that information on cassava market pricing updates (x̄ = 2.67), improved cassava varieties (x̄ = 2.65), pest and disease control techniques (x̄ = 2.64) and organic farming (x̄ = 2.33) were the commonly used agricultural information accessed through social media. Findings further showed that the average cassava yield was 18,690 kg/ha, while respondents mentioned the most benefit of using information on social media to include, improved access to agricultural knowledge (x̄ = 4.13). Regression analysis showed that organic farming (β= 3.867, p < 0.001), climate-smart practices (β= 3.052, p = 0.014), and agroforestry (β= 3.260, p = 0.018) significantly improved cassava production. The study concluded that social media played a growing role in enhancing cassava productivity. Findings from this study emphasized the need to promote the use of social media for agricultural productivity and food security. To this effect, extension agents should use common social media platforms to share verified agricultural information with cassava farmers.

Key words: Digital extension, Improved yield, Food security, Agricultural sustainability