Effects of Membership of Rice Farmers Associations on Size of Rice Field and Farm Input Utilisation in Kaduna State, North-West Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the effects of membership of Rice Farmers Associations (RFAs) on size of rice fields and rates of selected farm inputs applied among rice farmers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used for the selection of 94 respondents comprising of 47 members and 47 non-members while semi-structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and z-test. Results of the study showed that apart from age, there were no significant differences in socioeconomic characteristics of members and non-members of RFAs in the study area. Membership of RFAs did not have any significant effects on size of rice field and rates of fertiliser and herbicide applied. Consequently the study recommended that the capacity of RFAs should be strengthened by the relevant frontline agencies of government to make them more effective. Secondly, the government should ensure that rice farmers regardless of their group membership status have access to agricultural extension services and farm inputs necessary for increased productivity.