ABSTRACT
The study examines the adoption of improved maize varieties among small-scale farmers in Edo State, Nigeria, with a focus on addressing food security challenges. Utilizing a three-stage sampling technique, 150 maize farmers from five communities across three local government areas were selected. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire to assess farmers' socio-economic characteristics and factors influencing the use of improved seeds.
Analysis of the data revealed key insights into the demographic and farming practices of the participants, the majority of farmers were men (51%), married (83%), and engaged in mixed cropping (69.33%). Moreover, the adoption rate of theimproved maize varieties was found to be relatively high, with 50.7% of farmers using them, while 20.67% relied on local varieties and 28.67% used both. Probit regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing the adoption of improved maize seeds. Results indicated that marital status, land acquisition pattern, and cropping system significantly influenced seed utilization, showing a positive correlation. Conversely, household size, monthly income from other sources, and land ownership had a negative impact on adoption rates.
The implications of these findings suggest targeted interventions to promote the adoption of improved maize varieties among smallholder farmers. Specifically, extension services and policies should be tailored to married farmers, those with smaller household sizes, and those farming on rented or purchased land. Additionally, supporting diverse cropping systems and offering incentives for adopting improved maize varieties could help boost adoption rates.
