Adoption of Innovation through Joint Asset Acquisition: The Case of Women Rice Processor Groups in Nigeria

Abstract

Small-scale rice processors in Nigeria cannot afford to individually own rice destoners and have therefore not adopted its use. As a result, locally produced rice has failed to satisfy both the local and foreign markets in terms of quality. This study determined the willingness of the women rice processors to own and manage destoners in groups. The survey also determined the factors that influenced their willingness and the constraints to the joint acquisition of destoners. Following a two-stage random sampling technique, 195 respondents were selected on whom a structured interview schedule was administered. Descriptive statistics and the Probit Regression Analysis were used to present and analyse collected data. Findings reveal a high level of willingness (62.6%) influenced by the age of the respondents (-0.0341), their total annual income (0.3864), educational level (0.0757), rice farming experience (-0.7927), access to extension (-0.0089), and credit (0.0079) at P<.05. The burden of joint management (Mean score = 2.56), poor accountability (Mean score = 2.55), and poor organisation of the groups (Mean score = 2.47) were the most severe constraints to the joint acquisition of destoners among the women processors. The study concluded that the willingness of the women was high and influenced by some socio-economic characteristics. Strengthening of the processor groups through training in group dynamics and models of joint acquisition and ownership are some of the recommendations from the study.