Comparative training needs’ assessment of actors within the Ecological Organic Agriculture value chain in Northern Nigeria

Inadequate technical know-how, increased demand for labour, costly certification and access to international markets are amongst major constraints faced by practitioners of ecological organic agriculture (EOA) which constitute major restriction for the organic systems in attainment of sustainable agricultural development in developing countries. The current study in a bid to addressing these issues assessed the training needs of EOA practitioners in Northern Nigeria, with a view to identifying core areas where interventions are required. Purposive sampling procedure was used in selecting one state from each of the three (3) zones in Northern Nigeria, viz; Yobe state in North-east, Kebbi state in North-west and Niger state in North-central because these states are prominent in practicing organic farming in Northern Nigeria. Simple random sampling procedure was then used to select fifty-one (51) farmers, fifty-two (52) extension agents and fifty-two (52) marketers across the states, giving a total of one hundred and fifty-five (155) respondents sampled for the study. Data was collected with aid of structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistical tool while ‘Response Mapping’ of mean score was used for comparative analysis of actors’ training needs. Results showed that majority of the respondents were male {farmers (92.2%), extension agents (82.7%) marketers (76.9%)}. Mean age of farmer was 53.9 years, while those of extension agent and marketers were 39.0 years and 40.1 years, respectively. EOA actors mostly sourced information through training/workshop, NOAN and TV. Response mapping of training needs indicated that ‘composting/vermin composting’, ‘Biological method of Pest and Disease control’, ‘Bio-fertilizer’ and ‘Bio-rotation method of Pest and Disease management techniques’ were EOA components where actors mostly needed training. The study concluded on an urgent need for gender mainstreaming and young farmers’ involvement in organic agriculture. Similarly, concerned stakeholders need to organize capacity building and training workshops/seminars for practitioners covering all identified areas of training needs to enhance their skills and technical capabilities in the practice of organic agriculture