Factors influencing the adoption of National Institute of Horticultural Research (NIHORT) Technologies in southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the factors that influence the adoption of horticulture technologies in Southeast Agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. Three states were sampled for study from the nine states in the zone. Abia, Imo and Akwa Ibom were randomly selected for study. One hundred and ninety two (192) farmers were randomly sampled from the three states. Sixty (60) extension agents were also randomly selected from the zone. Questionnaire was the instrument used for the study. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage scores), and multiple regression analysis. Results showed that the mean adoption score of National Horticultural Research Institute technologies was very low (1.1). The reasons proffered were scarcity and high cost of technology packages. Factors that influenced adoption by farmers were age, mass media exposure, contact with extension agents and household size. It was recommended that technology inputs be multiplied and distributed to farmers at affordable prices.