Drivers of Maize Farmers’ Participation in the Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (Ng-Cares) Programme in Kano and Jigawa States, Nigeria

Background: The Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme supports smallholder farmers, but evidence on factors associated with maize farmers’ participation in Kano and Jigawa States remains limited. This study examined the socioeconomic and financial characteristics associated with participation. Methods: A multistage sampling technique selected 260 beneficiaries and 260 non-beneficiaries (n = 520) from six Local Government Areas. Questionnaire data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression model. Results: Beneficiaries had a pooled mean age of 49.70 years, mean household size of 12.67 persons and mean farm size of 1.45 hectares. Corresponding non-beneficiary values were 47.18 years, 13.15 persons and 1.51 hectares. Men accounted for 85.4% of beneficiaries and 95.0% of non-beneficiaries. Participation was positively associated with age (β = 0.0841; p < 0.001), marital status (β = 1.2570; p < 0.001), access to credit (β = 2.9670; p < 0.001) and source of credit (β = 2.0670; p < 0.001). Educational level showed a negative association (β = −0.2538; p = 0.014), while household size showed a weaker negative association (β = −0.0355; p = 0.090). Farm size, major crop grown, major income source, farming experience and access to basic amenities were not statistically significant. Conclusion: The findings indicate that demographic and credit-related characteristics were associated with NG-CARES participation. Programme administrators may strengthen inclusive communication, transparent registration and access to appropriate financing.