Abstract
This study assessed the expectations of cassava tuber farmers from the agricultural extension service providers in Edo State, Nigeria. It examined the support presently given to cassava farmers by the extension service viz-a-viz the needs of the farmers. To achieve these objectives, data were collected from 196 cassava tuber producers, randomly sampled from the three agricultural zones in the State. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential (multiple regression, Friedman and Cochran tests) statistics. Cochran test (χ2 = 596.35; p<0.01) revealed that information delivery on available improved varieties (0.939), land clearing/preparation methods (0.878), cassava stem treatment (0.872), recommended planting distance/spacing (0.867) and fertilizer application methods (0.857) were significant areas in which farmers have been supported by the extension service. Friedman test results (χ2 = 135.52; p<0.05) revealed that linking farmers to input suppliers (mean rank = 9.17) and training on proper cutting of cassava stems (mean = 9.10) were among the most significant needs. Multiple regression revealed that farm size (p<0.05) was the only variable significantly correlated with the extension needs of the farmers. The major constraints facing cassava tuber producers included high cost of improved varieties (mean = 3.85) and farming inputs (mean = 3.82) as well as poor access roads for transportation of cassava tubers. Taking advantage of group formation and linkage to credit were recommended.
Highlights
According to Otekunrin and Savicka, (2019) cassava (Manihot esculenta) among the root and tuber crops, is the most important, as source of food in the tropics
Cassava is sometimes described as the “bread of the tropics” or the African breadfruit (Treculia africana) (Ikuemonisan et al 2020)
Performance deficiencies in knowledge, skills and ability among the actors involved in the value chain process, in this case the cassava value chain, can constitute serious limitations to the attainment of the national agricultural development goals, with ultimate consequences on the performance of the agricultural sector in the country (IFAD and FAO, 2005)
Summary
According to Otekunrin and Savicka, (2019) cassava (Manihot esculenta) among the root and tuber crops, is the most important, as source of food in the tropics. Any effort or research geared towards developing its production, either directly or indirectly, will have impact on the rural economy This explains the focus of this research on the cassava crop, and the tuber production component of the cassava value chain. For the agricultural sector to develop to the point of satisfying the demand of the ever-increasing population for both human, industrial and livestock consumption, will require the development of the food and livestock sub-sectors and its associated value chain (FAO, 2005). This is the thrust of the agricultural policies of the government of Nigeria. Studies on the extension service role in the cassava value chain process are scanty, and even more so are studies that explore the FUDMA Journal of Sciences (FJS) Vol 5 No 1, March, 2021, pp 584 – 593
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