Adoption of drought tolerant maize varieties and farmers’ access to credit in Nigeria: Implications on productivity

Abstract

In this study, we examined the determinants of choice of variety including DTMV, local variety and combination of the two varieties using multivariate probit model. In addition, we examined factors influencing adoption of DTMV and access to credit among the maize farmers using endogenous switching probit model (ESPM). Consequently, we ascertained the probable effects of adoption of DTMV on maize productivity using endogenous switching regression model (ESRM). We used IPWRA to correct for biased estimates of ATT, ATE and POM of the endogenous treatment. Our results are in four folds: First, from the multivariate probit model, we found that age, gender, household size, farming experience, membership in farmers association, access to extension contacts, location and access to credit variables influenced the maize farmers’ decision to choose between DTMV, local varieties and combination of both. Second, the result of the ESPM shows that variables age, gender, farm size, years of formal education and membership in association affects maize farmers’ access to credit. Third, from ESRM results, we found that gender, household size, marital status, membership in association, access to extension contacts and location variables translates to increase maize productivity for the maize farmers who adopted DTMV. Lastly, the result of IPWRA indicates that adoption of DTMV increased the productivity of the maize farmers. To ensure access to DTMV seed varieties, stakeholders and government should take lead in dissemination of these varieties to reach the target farmers.