ADOPTION OF PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES BY LOWLAND RICE FARMERS IN LAVUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined adoption of production technologies by lowland rice farmers in Lavun Local Government Areas of Niger state. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed where a total of 181 lowland rice farmers were randomly selected by 5% proportionate to size. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Farmers’ adoption index indicated majority on relatively high scale adoption of nursery practice (81.8%), transplanting and spacing (69.1%) and harvesting (54.7%). The relatively low adopted practices by the majority were water management (76.0%), herbicide (84.0) and rate of fertilizer application (57.5%). Land preparation recorded majority (77.4%) on a medium scale basis. The study identified constraints to include: high cost and low availability of farm inputs, lack of credit facilities and infestations among others. The results of Tobit multivariate regression model indicated household size, farming experience, extension contacts, training participation  and distance from market were  significant (P≤0.01) determining factors influencing adoption of lowland  rice production technologies;  farm size and social capital were also significant (P≤0.05). Adoption of rice technology package is sustainable among the rice farmers if the constraints are overcome. It is therefore recommended that the agricultural extension agencies should give priority attention to the significant factors identified by this study while formulating development strategies and programs for different categories of farmers.