Appraisal of the level of usage of Nigerian stored products research institute postharvest technologies among vegetable handlers in Lasoju village, Kwara State, Nigeria

This study examined the level of usage of NSPRI postharvest technologies among vegetable handlers in Lasoju Village, Kwara State, Nigeria. The research was conducted in Lasoju Village, and the study population comprised all vegetable handlers in the area. A multistage sampling procedure was employed to select 42 respondents. Primary data were obtained using a well-structured questionnaire and interview guide. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The results showed that the respondents had a mean age of 52.62 ± 10.98 years and a mean household size of 10.14 ± 5.61. The majority were female (78.6%) and had no formal education (87.5%). All respondents (100%) reported the availability of vegetable sheds provided by NSPRI, while only 14.3% indicated awareness of the NSPRI vegetable basket. Most respondents reported a high level of utilization of both the NSPRI vegetable shed (85.7%) and vegetable basket (83.3%). Limited capacity (Weighted Mean Score = 1.29) was identified as the major challenge affecting the use of NSPRI postharvest technologies in the community. The linear regression analysis revealed that education level (t = 2.728***) had a significant positive relationship with the level of usage of NSPRI postharvest technologies. Given the critical role of education in technology adoption, there is a strong need for sustained advocacy and investment in quality education to enhance the effective utilization of postharvest technologies, thereby improving productivity and returns on investment.