Assessment of <i>Leucaena leucocephala</i> (Lam) de Wit agroforestry technology adoption among smallholder farmers in Benue State Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess Leucaena leucocephala agroforestry technology adoption among smallholder farmers in Benue state. The stratified systematic random sampling technique was adopted for data collection. The state was stratified into three zones based on the senatorial districts. Respondents were stratified into three categories these were Extension agents, benefitting smallholder farmers (BSF) neighboring farmers (NF). structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistic and a five-point Likert scale rating format. The study revealed that 53.3% benefitting smallholder farmers were females, 52.3% of neighboring farmers were males. Most (66.6%) of BSF were below 60 years, 74.7% of NF were below 50years. Furthermore, 51.7% of BSF had primary education while 59.3% of NF had secondary education. Hundred percent of smallholder farmers were females, 52.3% of neighboring farmers were males. All BSFs were aware of Leucaena leucocephala agroforestry technology, while 66.0% of neighboring farmers were not aware of the technology. Leucaena AF technology adoption was rated very high WMS=4.9. Farmers perceived that agroforestry significantly increase their farm output MWS=4.5, AF technology serve as fertilizer to crops on the farmland MWS=4.4 AF as staking materials MWS=4.6, windbreaks MWS=3.9, used as fuel wood MWS=4.3, treatment of disease MWS=3.8. it was shown that 60% of the farmers cultivate yam crop alongside Leucaena species, while 44.3% of farmers Combined animal and crops alongside Leucaena sp. There is the need for the Government of Benue state to renew Leucaena leucocephala agroforestry technology project in the study area; since neighboring farmers are willing to practice AF technology due to its numerous benefits. Also, there is the need for awareness creation and involvement of private or non-governmental organizations to intervene in funding and monitoring the success of this project in the study area.