International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

The research aimed to identify perceived factors militating against the adoption of organic and inorganic fertilizers among waterleaf farmers in Akwa Ibom State. Primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Likert scaling. The study utilized a multi-stage sampling technique to select 120 participants, comprising 60 organic-based and 60 inorganic-based waterleaf farmers. Results indicated that a majority of the participants, 85% of organic-based farmers and 78.3% of inorganic-based farmers, were female. Furthermore, 71.7% of organic farmers and 66.7% of inorganic farmers were married.

The monthly income data for both organic and inorganic farmers shows that a higher percentage of organic farmers (46.7%) and inorganic farmers (50%) reported earnings between N10,000 - N50,000. An examination of Likert scaling further identified several key factors hindering the adoption of organic fertilizer technology. These factors include a negative attitude from the government, inadequate agricultural policy, limited extension services, lack of access to credit facilities, the labor-intensive nature in comparison to inorganic methods, and the conservative nature of rural dwellers. Several factors were found to be inhibiting the adoption of chemical or inorganic fertilizer technology in waterleaf production in Akwa Ibom State. These include the conservative nature of rural dwellers, lack of awareness, insufficient organic manure, absence of appropriate agricultural policy, the labor-intensive nature compared to organic application, and negative attitudes by the government. The study recommends the implementation of capacity building programs for extension agents to enhance their knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for training on both organic and inorganic farming practices.