Assessment of Farmers and Community Managed Seed Systems in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Author : Amusat, Adeniyi Suraju; Anjorin, F.B.; Idowu, T.C.; Adetumbi, J.A

Abstract : One of the most effective ways to boost agricultural productivity is through the use of high-quality seed from improved and locally adapted varieties. Without seed security, food security is not possible. This study examined farmers and community managed seed systems in Orire local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 68 respondents who are involved in planting of seeds of different crops in the community. Data were obtained through quantitative (questionnaire and qualitative (Focus Group Discussion) methods. Descriptive analyses showed that respondents were mostly male (88.2%), middle aged (51.80±3.11 years), and had between 16 -20 year of experience (58.8%). Majority of farmers sourced their seed from saved seed ((x̄ = 1.98±0.46), local markets ((x̄ = 1.88±0.24), fellow farmers ((x̄ = 1.68±0.47) and derived benefits such as local adaptation (x̄ = 2.00±0.35), easy accessibility (x̄ = 1.88±0.26) and cheapness (x̄ = 1.84±0.23) from their own community managed seed. High cost of certified seed (2.43±0.34), distance to seed service centers (2.32±0.29) and climate related issues (2.25±0.32) were the major constraints confronting farmers in acquiring quality seed for planting. High-quality seed contributes to better yields, climate resilience, and nutritional value, making it a central element of sustainable agriculture, therefore government and relevant agencies should provide credit facility for farmers, subsidize cost of certified seed and decentralize offices of research institutes and other input agencies by moving them close to rural communities where famers would have easy access.

Keywords : Community managed, quality seed, saved seed, smallholder farmers.

Conference Name : International Conference on Rural Development and Agricultural Policy Innovations (ICRDAPI - 26)

Conference Place : Ruse, Bulgaria

Conference Date : 8th Oct 2026