Farmers’ Perceptions of Pest and Disease Control Methods in South-South Nigeria

This study investigates the perceptions and practices of farmers in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria, regarding pest and disease control methods. A survey of 160 farmers, 80 from each state, was conducted to gather data on their demographic characteristics, pest management strategies, and perceptions of soil fertility loss due to synthetic inputs. In Edo State, 66.25% of respondents were female, with the majority aged between 24 and 37 years (40%). In Delta State, 58.75% were female, with a significant portion aged 15 to 23 years (36.25%). Most farmers in both states have secondary education (45% in Delta, 46.25% in Edo) and substantial farming experience, predominantly between 11 and 20 years (42.5% in Edo, 37.5% in Delta). The study reveals a high reliance on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, used by 48.75% of farmers in Edo and 45% in Delta. Chemical pesticides, such as Gammalin and ForcedUp, are also widely used, with 30% in Edo and 28.5% in Delta. Non-chemical methods like physical and pheromone traps are utilized by 40% in Edo and 25% in Delta. Manual weed removal is the most common weeding method, practiced by 43.75% of farmers in Edo and 37.5% in Delta, while chemical herbicides are less commonly used. A significant portion of farmers are unfamiliar with organic farming, and perceptions of the impact of synthetic inputs on soil fertility vary between the states. The findings highlight the need for increased education on sustainable agricultural practices and localized research on the long-term impacts of synthetic inputs on soil health. Promoting sustainable pest and disease control methods is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and environmental health in these regions.