Farmers perception of the quality and accessibility of agrochemicals in Kaduna and Ondo States of Nigeria: Implications for policy

Abstract

This study analyzed the quality and accessibility of agrochemicals as perceived by crop farmers in Kaduna and Ondo States of Nigeria. A total of 260 crop farmers were selected for the study using multi-stage sampling procedure. Data were collected using pre-tested, structured interview schedule. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that the majority (62.7%) of the crop farmers perceived the quality of agrochemical to be poor or just average. Similarly, many (43.5%) perceived agrochemical as accessible. Farmers’ perception of quality of agrochemical was strongly influenced by level of education (0.059) and experience (0.015) among others. On the other hand, perception of accessibility of agrochemical is influenced by education (0.064) and income (0.012) among others. Major constraints to accessing quality agrochemicals were inadequate enforcement of pesticide regulations, high cost, and porous borders. This study therefore, recommends that government should device policy and special financial incentive (subsidy) geared towards boosting local production of agrochemical. It is also advocated that government should review pesticide laws to facilitate the effective supervision of pesticide quality in Nigeria.

Keywords: Agrochemical, farmers’ perception, agricultural inputs