ADOPTION OF IMPROVED YAM PRODUCTION PRACTICES AMONGST FARMERS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract
This study assessed the adoption of improved yam production practices (IYPPs) to sustain yam production amongst farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. One hundred and fifty (150) yam farmers were randomly selected in Kaiama and Baruten local government areas. Primary data was collected with the use of structure questionnaire. Data collected was analysed with frequency count, percentages, mean score, and regression statistical tools. Findings reveal that 94.7% were aware of improved yam production practices. IYPPs adopted by farmers were agro-chemicals and fertilizer application (58.0%), minisett technology-improved yam seed variety (52.7%), and seed treatment-preservation/packaging techniques (23.3%). A t-test (t = 9.434; p < 0.01) indicated farm size after adoption was statistically greater than farm size before adoption. About 82.0% indicated that the reason for the adoption of the IYPPs was to sustainably increase yam production. The study concludes that yam farmers adopted some IYPPs to sustainably increase yam production.
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