SMALLHOLDER FARMERS’ ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS ON THE SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION INNOVATION PRACTICES IN NORTH-WEST, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the smallholder farmers’ awareness and attitude on the system of rice intensification innovation practices in North-west, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedule administered to randomly selected 315 rice farmers via a 3-stage sampling procedure. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Majority are males (91.7%), married (75.0%), with secondary education (66.7%) and no extension contact (91.7%). Average age of 32 years, farming experience of 11 years, monthly income of N30, 637.51k, farm size of 7.0 hectares and household size of 5 persons. The respondents have favorable attitude towards SRI innovation practices (=1.54±1.23). The categorization of attitude shows that majority (58.7%) were with favorable attitude. Greater proportion indicated low awareness level (65.3%) on SRI innovation practices (=2.37±1.54). There are several severe constraints to implementation of SRI practices with constraint index of =3.21±1.47. The study recommends that awareness campaign on SRI practices be instituted using different information dissemination methods. Periodic advisory services be provided to increase the attitude, understanding and awareness of the clienteles on the SRI components as well as boosting the adoption to strengthened food security.