Global Advanced Research Journal of Agricultural Science
October 2012 Vol. 1(8), pp 223-232
Copyright © 2012 Global Advanced Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Factors Constraining Rural Youths Involvement in Cassava Production in Onu – Imo Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria.

¹Chikezie, N.P., ²Chikaire, J., ³Osuagwu, C.O.,³Ihenacho, R.A., ²Ejiogu-Okereke, N., ³Oguegbuchulam, M. N. and ⁴Obi, K.U.

¹Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna  State, 

²Department of Agricultural Extension, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State; 

³Department of Agricultural Management and Extension Technology, Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwo, Ohaji, Imo State,

⁴Department of Agriculture, Isu-Njaba  High School, Imo State,   Nigeria.

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: rosafyne24@yahoo.com

Accepted 20 September, 2012

Abstract

The study entitled factors constraining  rural youths involvement in cassava production in Onu- Imo Area of Imo State was conducted to find out problems rural youth who engage in cassava production faced despite the fact that governments have put in place programmes to boast agricultural production. One hundred and twenty youth were randomly selected from a list of 1200 youths obtained from the youth leaders of the  communities  visited. Questionnaire was used to elicit information and the data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as percentages, mean, and frequency counts presented in tabular forms.   Majority  (60%) were in their prime age of 21-30 years.  These engage in cassava production to make money, get out poverty, and ensure there is food all the time and because of the demand for cassava. They clear bushes, get involved in weeding, planting, harvesting, fertilizer application, and other activities. But they are not without problems in their activities. They face the problems of inadequate land  for production, capital,  storage facilities,  working implements/equipments,  pests and diseases attack, low returns, peoples perception of agriculture, and so on. These problems  could be solved if facilities are provided,  loans and  credits given, training  of farmers by extension  agents and enabling law on land access to enterprising farmers.

Keywords: Cassava, poverty, food security, youth, agriculture.