Analysis of Factors Influencing Adoption of Organic Onion Production by Farmers in Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of organic onion production and the constraints faced by farmers in Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was employed, involving the purposive selection of seven villages (Dundaye, Gumbi, Kwalkwalawa, Kammata, Bini, Kasarawa, and Gatare). From each village, 10 organic onion farmers were randomly selected, yielding a total sample size of 70 respondents. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGDs) with the aid of trained enumerators, while secondary data were obtained from relevant literature, including textbooks, journals, reports, and statistical publications. The Small Plot Adoption Technique (SPAT) was used to determine the level of adoption of organic onion production practices by assessing the proportion of cultivated land under organic management by each farmer. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. The results revealed that economic and institutional factors were the most influential drivers of adoption, accounting for 27.5% and 22.5%, respectively, followed by medicinal benefits (14.2%), organic manure use (15%), and extension services (10.0%). The study further identified major constraints affecting organic onion production, including inadequate storage facilities (59.17%), inadequate capital (50.83%), high cost of labour (40.83%), high cost of organic manure (25.00%), limited access to bio-pesticides (23.33%), poor extension services (17.50%), small farm holdings (15.00%), inaccessibility to improved seeds (10.00%), poor market prices (5.83%), inadequate credit facilities (3.33%), and pests and diseases (3.33%). The study concludes that despite the growing adoption of organic onion production, farmers are significantly constrained by infrastructural, financial, and institutional challenges. It is recommended that government and development agencies strengthen extension services, improve access to credit and organic inputs, and support farmer cooperatives to enhance production efficiency and market access. Future studies should consider comparative analyses between organic and conventional onion production systems to better assess yield differentials and economic viability.