SMALLHOLDER’S PERCEPTION OF THE ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF ORGANIC FARMING IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF AKOKO SOUTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA)

ABSTRACT

The study examined the smallholder farmers' perceptions of the economic and environmental benefits of organic farming in Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. This study conveniently sampling respondents who were administered with questionnaires. Relevant conceptual, theoretical and empirical literature was reviewed. The target population of the study comprised selected farmers Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Three hundred (300) respondents constitute the sample size for this study. The descriptive and analytical approach was adopted using Chi-square to test and analyze the hypotheses earlier stated. Findings revealed that There is a significant relationship between smallholder farmers’ socio-economic characteristics and organic farming practices. Findings of the study also reveals that There is a significant relationship between smallholders’ awareness, knowledge, and organic farming practices. Findings of the study also reveals that There is a significant relationship between economic benefits, environmental benefits, and organic farming practices. It was therefore concluded that smallholder farmers' perceptions of the economic is significantly related to environmental benefits of organic farming in Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. It is recommended that targeted educational and capacity-building programs should be developed and implemented to address the specific knowledge gaps among farmers regarding organic farming.

CHAPTER ONE          

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Agriculture remains a vital sector in Nigeria's economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment, and economic growth (Adegbite & Olayemi, 2020). In recent years, the shift towards organic farming has gained momentum globally as an environmentally sustainable alternative to conventional farming methods (Smith & Johnson, 2021). Organic farming, characterized by using natural inputs and sustainable farming practices, seeks to improve soil fertility, reduce environmental degradation, and promote biodiversity (IFOAM, 2021). In Nigeria, adopting organic farming practices has been relatively slow, especially among smallholder farmers who form the backbone of agricultural production (Adeoye et al., 2020). Conventional farming practices, while effective in increasing short-term yields, have been linked to soil depletion, water pollution, and a decrease in biodiversity due to the overuse of agrochemicals (Adebayo & Adebisi, 2016). Moreover, the escalating costs of chemical fertilizers and pesticides have further strained smallholder farmers, making it difficult for them to maintain productivity and profitability (FAO, 2021). These challenges highlight the need for alternative farming practices that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

In addition, smallholder farmers in Nigeria, play a crucial role in agricultural production. Their farming practices directly impact the local economy and environment. However, the transition from conventional to organic farming requires significant behavioral changes, knowledge, and resources (Pretty et al., 2018). The adoption of organic farming in Nigeria, particularly among smallholder farmers in rural areas, remains relatively low, due to factors such as limited awareness, lack of access to organic inputs, and entrenched reliance on conventional farming methods (Ifeanyichukwu et al., 2021). Organic farming, which promotes the use of natural inputs and sustainable agricultural practices, presents a promising solution to the challenges faced by farmers in the local government (Bationo et al., 2018; Tetteh et al., 2020).

Thus, understanding their perceptions of the economic and environmental benefits of organic farming is essential to designing effective policies and programmes that can facilitate this shift. This study aims to explore the perceptions of smallholder farmers in the area regarding organic farming and assess their awareness and attitudes towards its benefits.

1.2 Statement of Problem

Despite the numerous economic and environmental benefits associated with organic farming, its adoption among smallholder farmers in Nigeria remains low (Olayemi et al., 2019). The reluctance to adopt organic farming practices could be attributed to various factors, including lack of awareness, limited access to resources, and misconceptions about its viability (Eze et al., 2020). In Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, where agriculture is a primary source of livelihood, many smallholder farmers continue to rely on conventional farming practices that often lead to soil degradation, reduced crop yields, and environmental pollution (Adebayo & Adekunle, 2021).There is a growing need to investigate the perceptions of smallholder farmers regarding organic farming and identify the barriers to its adoption. Without a clear understanding of their views and experiences, efforts to promote organic farming may be ineffective. This research seeks to address the gap in knowledge by exploring smallholder farmers' perceptions of the economic and environmental benefits of organic farming and identifying the challenges they face in adopting these practices.

1.3 Research Questions

To achieve the objectives, the study will address the following research questions:

1. What are the socio-economic characteristics of farmers in the study area?
2. What is the level of smallholder farmers' awareness and knowledge of organic farming practices in the study area?
3. How do smallholder farmers perceive the economic benefits of organic farming in the study area?
4. How do smallholder farmers perceive the environmental benefits of organic farming in the study area?
5. What are the constraints smallholder farmers face in adopting organic farming practices in the study area?

1.4 Research Objectives

The general objective of the study is to determine smallholder farmers' perceptions of the economic and environmental benefits of organic farming in Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. the specific objectives of the study are to:

1. describe the socio-economic characteristics of farmers in the study area.
2. examine smallholder farmers' awareness and knowledge of organic farming practices in the study area.
3. assess smallholder farmers’ perceptions of the economic (profitability, cost saving, and market opportunities) benefits of organic farming in the study area.
4. evaluate smallholder farmers’ perceptions of the environmental (soil fertility improvement, biodiversity conservation, and reduced environmental pollution) benefits of organic farming in the study area.
5. identify constraints smallholder farmers face in adopting organic farming practices in the study area.

1.5 Hypothesis of the Study

H01: There is no significant relationship between smallholder farmers’ socio-economic characteristics and organic farming practices.

H02: There is no significant relationship between smallholders’ awareness, knowledge, and organic farming practices.
H03: There is no significant relationship between economic benefits, environmental benefits, and organic farming practices.

1.6 Justification of the Study

Organic farming has gained significant global attention due to its potential to address food security, environmental sustainability, and rural livelihoods. However, the perception of organic farming practices among smallholder farmers remains limited, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, where agriculture is the primary livelihood, is no exception. Understanding smallholder farmers' perceptions of the economic and environmental benefits of organic farming is crucial to developing strategies that can enhance adoption rates and improve sustainable agricultural practices. This study seeks to fill a critical knowledge gap by providing empirical evidence on farmers' views, which can guide policymakers and extension services in promoting organic farming practices that align with farmers' needs and local realities.

Furthermore, the study's focus on both economic and environmental benefits is essential in addressing the dual challenges of poverty and environmental degradation in rural communities. Organic farming practices can potentially improve farmers' income by reducing input costs and increasing demand for organic produce in both local and international markets. Simultaneously, these practices will promote soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance, which are critical for long-term agricultural productivity. However, without understanding the perceptions of farmers who are key stakeholders in this transition, the promotion of organic farming may face resistance or fail to achieve its intended impact. This research is, therefore, essential to inform targeted interventions that will support smallholder farmers in adopting organic farming practices, thereby contributing to the sustainability of agricultural systems and rural development in Ondo State, Nigeria.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

Organic Farming: Organic farming excludes synthetic chemicals, relying on natural methods for soil health, pest control, and biodiversity. It focuses on sustainability through practices like crop rotation and composting to produce environmentally friendly and health-conscious food (Lampkin, 2019).

Smallholder Farmers: Smallholder farmers manage small farms (typically under 5 hectares), relying on family labor to produce crops and livestock for personal use, with surplus sold in local markets (IFAD, 2021).

Economic Benefit: The economic benefits include earning higher prices for organic products, saving on chemical inputs, and enjoying better long-term financial returns due to the sustainability of organic farming practices (Reganold & Wachter, 2016).

Environmental Benefit: Environmental benefits include improved soil quality, increased biodiversity, better water conservation, and reduced pollution, all stemming from organic practices that minimize chemical use and promote sustainable farming techniques (FAO, 2020).

 Perception: Perception refers to how smallholder farmers understand and form opinions about organic farming, shaped by their experiences, local knowledge, and views on its economic and environmental advantages (Bunch, 2020).