ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRADITIONAL PRACTICES IN GREEN LEAFY FARMING IN PERI-URBAN AREAS OF IBADAN, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the socio-economic characteristics of green leafy farmers (GLFs) and investigated traditional approaches to green leafy farming in Ibadan peri-urban areas. The specific objectives were to assess the demographic and socio-economic profiles of GLFs, and identify traditional farming practices and associated challenges. Data were collected from 200 GLFs using a structured questionnaire in the four peri-urban local government areas of Ibadan (Egbeda, Akinyele, Oluyole, and Ido). The questionnaire covered demographic and socio-economic characteristics, farm production attributes, and green-leafy farming approaches. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics to summarise the findings. The study found that manual weeding, watering, and application of herbicides and insecticides were common practices among GLFs in the peri-urban in Ibadan. The majority of GLFs were male, aged 20-40 years, and had received no formal training before farming. Current farming practices were ineffective in production technique, time-consuming nature, and labour intensiveness. The study concludes that there is a need for regular training and re-training of GLFs through extension agents to improve productivity and ensure food security. At the same time, the government at all levels supports GLFs with training programs and access to modern farming techniques to enhance their farming practices and livelihoods.