Use of Good Agricultural Practices Among Cassava Farmers in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the adoption of good agricultural practices by arable crop farmers in Southwest, Nigeria. Specifically, the study describes the farmers’ awareness of good agricultural practices; ascertains the good agricultural practices arable crop farmers have adopted and identifies the constraints farmers face in adopting GAPs. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 respondents for the study. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule. 91.5% of the respondents knew about crop rotation. The majority 86.5% of farmers adopted one or more good agricultural practices. The proportion of the respondents that adopted practices like planting improved cassava varieties, and usage of pesticides approved by NAFDAC and recommended by the ADP extension agent. Among the constraints the respondents faced in adopting good agricultural practices, an increase in the cost of production and management requirements ranked highest. Most farmers were aware of various good agricultural practices and have also adopted one or more of the listed good ones. Agricultural Development Projects should encourage the formation and promotion of farmers’ groups, as it enhances information sharing about good agricultural practices, and thus favours the ease of adoption of good agricultural practices.