AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF AGROECOLOGY AND IT’S ADOPTION AMONG GROUNDNUT FARMERS IN ASKIRA/UBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study investigated the socio-economic characteristics, Awareness and Perception of Agroecology and it’s Adoption Among Groundnut Farmers in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Maiduguri Borno State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using frequency distribution and percentages. The findings revealed that most respondents were middle-aged, equally represented by male and female farmers, and predominantly smallholders cultivating 1–5 hectares of land. Awareness of traditional agroecological practices, such as intercropping, crop rotation, and application of animal manure, was relatively high, while knowledge of advanced practices, including agroforestry, zero or minimum tillage, and integrated pest management, was limited. Adoption patterns showed a preference for simple and familiar practices, with intercropping and application of animal manure recording the highest adoption rates. Constraints to adoption included high labor requirements, lack of technical knowledge, limited access to inputs and credit, and inadequate extension support. The study concluded that while farmers are aware of agroecological practices, adoption is hindered by labor, knowledge, and resource-related challenges. Recommendations include strengthening extension services, organizing targeted training programs, providing financial support, promoting farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing, and implementing labor-saving technologies to enhance adoption and promote sustainable rice production.