Peri-Urban and Urban Farmers’ Perceptions of Mini-Livestock Farming in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The study focused on perception of peri-urban and urban farmers about mini-livestock farming in South-Western Nigeria. Specifically, the peri-urban farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, level of involvement in rearing mini-livestock, constraint associated with mini-livestock farming and farmers’ perception about mini-livestock farming were examined. One hundred and eighty-two respondents were interviewed through the use of structured interview schedule and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data analysis was carried out using frequency counts, percentage, mean, standard deviation and correlation. The results of the study showed that more males were involved in mini-livestock rearing than females, while the mean age of the farmers was 46 years. Majority were literate and information sourced from fellow farmers was the most common and reliable source of information accessible by the respondents, but there was low extension contact. Problems confronting the respondents include inadequate credit facilities, untimely supply of inputs, improper management skill and low extension contacts. Peri-urban and urban farmers had moderate perception about mini-livestock farming but with low level of involvement in the production. In conclusion, there is need to arouse the interest of farmers through training and re-training in the management practices of these mini-livestock. A little motivation from change agents research institutes and government policy makers could boost production of mini-livestock.