AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE UTILIZED BY RURAL FARMERS IN SOUTH-SOUTH REGION, NIGERIA

Author:  Ominikari, Abraham G.

Abstract
The study examined the benefits of indigenous knowledge utilization by rural farmers in south-south region, Nigeria. In conducting the study, a multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 360 farmers’. Data collection was through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean as well as the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Findings showed that planting season using indigenous knowledge ( = 3.5), crop rotation/cultivating different varieties to control pest and diseases spread ( = 3.2), food preservation and crop protection against pests/diseases ( = 3.2), fertility and water conservation ( = 3.2) and traps for controlling pests ( = 3.1) were the major types of indigenous knowledge utilized by farmers in South-South Nigeria. The study also revealed that increased yield ( = 3.0), high income ( = 2.9), increased value chain activities ( = 2.9) and better farm skills ( = 2.9) were notable benefits of indigenous knowledge utilization by rural farmers in South-South Nigeria. The ANOVA result showed no significant difference between the mean ratings of the respondents on the benefits of indigenous knowledge utilization at 5% level of significance. From the findings, it was concluded that there were notable benefits of indigenous knowledge utilization by rural farmers in South-South Nigeria. The study recommended that both the government and extension officers be actively involved in educating rural farmers on the benefits and appropriate use of indigenous knowledge in sustaining their livelihood activities.