Evaluation of Farmers' Proficiency in Utilizing Organic Products to Combat Cucumber Mosaic Virus Disease in Okra in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Strengthening the extension services and providing timely and context-specific information through innovation platforms can contribute to building resilience in regenerative agriculture and nature-based agri-production systems. Thus, the study evaluated farmers' proficiency in utilizing organic products to combat cucumber mosaic virus disease in okra in Abia State, Nigeria" Specifically, the study ascertained farmers awareness and intensity of incidence of CMV, identified organic extracts and products used by farmers in the control of CMV, examined level and determinants of farmer’s proficiency and constraints limiting farmers use of organic products on the control of CMV in okra. Multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in the selection of 150 respondents from two out of three Agricultural zones in Abia State Nigeria. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain relevant data for the study which was analyzed using simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means as well as Z-test and OLS regression model. Results show that Majority (71%) of the farmers demonstrated basic understanding of organic products and their potential for disease control. Certain organic products (plants ( = 3.4) and non-plant ( = 3.0) extracts) were found to be more popular and widely used among farmers due to their effectiveness and availability. High level of proficiency in the use of Azadirachta indica (neem) ( = 3.60) than Zingiber officinale (ginger) ( = 3.05), Allium sativum (garlic), ( = 2.69) and Jathropha leave extract ( = 2.55) respectively were recorded. Coefficients for educational qualification (10%), extension contact (1%), participated in trainings (1%) are significant variables directly influencing the level of proficiency. The study therefore calls for empowering the farmers through access to informal education, trainings and contact with extension services to substantially increase access to information on organic farming practices, and/or pest and disease control as best control strategy ultimately leading to improved yields and livelihoods in the agricultural sector.