Patterns and drivers of the adoption of improved groundnut technologies in North-western Nigeria

Summary

The most recent groundnut varieties registered and released in Nigeria are SAMNUT 24, SAMUT 25, and SAMNUT 26. Using appropriate sampling procedures, a total of 224 representatives of farm families were interviewed, with 112 from administrative units where a development project is being implemented (PLGA), and 112 from administrative units where project interventions are absent (NPLGA). Results of the study reveal that improved groundnut varieties are becoming part of a multitude of groundnut varieties being cultivated by farmers in PLGA and NPLGAs. Amongst the improved groundnut varieties, SAMNUT 24 was being planted by 39% and 28% of households in PLGA and NPLGA, respectively. Similarly, amongst the varieties described as local, Ex-dakar is grown by 31% and 35% of households in PLGA and NPLGA, respectively. Five underlying factors were found to drive adoption decisions: farming experience, age, education, access to improved seeds and extension services, and household size. Beyond the combined use of seeds of improved groundnut varieties and accompanying management practices, using the right combination of inputs to optimize financial gains remains a challenge for the households involved in the study.

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