Determinants of adoption of improved maize varieties in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the level and socioeconomic determinants of discontinued use decision of improved maize varieties among farming households in Osun State, Nigeria with a view to increasing food production. A multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to select a sample of 321 farmers across the three agro ecological zones of the State. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Data were collected on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of respondents such as age, household size, gender, farm size and other maize production related activities including reasons for discontinued use of improved maize varieties. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate probit model. Results showed that 51.7% of households that initially adopted improved maize varieties (IMVs) discontinued their use while only 48.3% continued using them. Off-farm income (t=2.09; p<0.05), frequency of extension services contact (t=10.43; p<0.05), membership in associations (t=2.59; p<0.05) and level of education (t=2.66; p<0.05) significantly influenced the discontinued use decision of improved maize varieties by the farm households. The study concluded that improved farmer education and access to effective and efficient extension delivery services are capable of ensuring continued use of IMVs and increasing maize production in Osun State. Key