Smallholder Farmers’ Perspectives on FARO Rice Cultivation in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the smallholder rice farmers perceptions on FARO Rice and techniques of production in Southwestern, Nigeria. Only primary data was used to achieve the work which was obtained from a total of 240 rice farmers purposively selected across 24 rice-growing communities using a multi-stage sampling approach. Data were collected with a structured and pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and mean from Likert type scale. The results showed that most farmers were male (67.5%), married (80%), and within the productive age group of 41–50 years (30.4%). On average, farmers had 12.6 years of rice farming experience and cultivated 4.8 hectares. Education levels were moderate, with 54.2% having completed secondary school, which supported technology adoption. Farmers mainly sourced seeds from previous harvests (73.8%) and peers (62.5%), while information about FARO rice came largely from peer networks (80%), Agricultural Development Programmes (62.9%), and radio (62.5%). However, irregular extension visits reduced trust and slowed the uptake of innovations. Awareness was highest for FARO 44 (100%) and FARO 52 (83.3%), while FARO 51 (53.7%) and FARO 15 (51.7%) were less known. Farmers perceived FARO rice varieties positively, citing high seed quality, adaptability, profitability, and good market value. Still, challenges included high input costs, labor intensity, and vulnerability to flooding. The study concludes that FARO varieties have strong potential to improve yields and incomes. It recommends active resurgence of extension services, utilization and leveraging on the spread of digital platforms and mobile devices gaining rural access and adaptability, improving farmers’ access to credit and inputs, and empowering farmer associations to enhance adoption.