NAVIGATING GMO ADOPTION IN AGRICULTURE: BALANCING CONTROVERSIES AND BENEFITS AMONG SMALL HOLDER FARMERS IN BAUCHI, BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors influencing the adoption and rejection of genetically modified (GMO) maize seeds among farmers in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The research aimed to assess farmers’ awareness, analyze determinants of adoption, and explore reasons behind resistance to GMO technology. Using a multistage sampling technique, 298 farming households were selected, and data were gathered through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analyses were employed to examine relationships among variables. The results revealed that 59.14% of respondents relied on fellow farmers for information, while only 25.91% obtained knowledge from extension agents. Awareness of GMO crops remained low, with 58.14% of farmers rating their understanding as “fair” and 36.21% as “poor.” Regression outcomes showed that gender (p = 0.002), household size (p = 0.001), access to credit (p = 0.002), and exposure to radio/TV (p = 0.000) and social media (p = 0.000) were significant predictors of adoption. Rejection, however, was primarily influenced by religious beliefs (68.44%), fear of seed dependency (39.54%), and inadequate technical support. The study concluded that limited awareness, cultural misconceptions, and institutional barriers hinder GMO adoption. It recommended strengthening extension services, improving credit access, and promoting culturally sensitive awareness campaigns to encourage informed agricultural innovation.
Keywords: Navigating, GMO Adoption, In Agriculture: Balancing, Controversies, Benefits Small Holder Farmers
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