FACTORS INFLUENCING RICE FARMERS' LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION IN THE FADAMA III ADDITIONAL FINANCING (AF) DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

This study examines the socio-economic characteristics of rice farmers and the factors influencing their participation in the Fadama III AF development project in Plateau State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 259 farmers who participated in the project, and primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (Frequency distribution tables, percentages (%) and mean) and inferential statistics (Probit regression analysis) were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the average age of the farmers was 44 years, with 67% being males and 33% females. The majority (85%) of the farmers were married, with an average household size of 7 persons. The farmers cultivated an average of 1 hectare of land and had 18 years of farming experience. Also, 57% of participants rice farmers in Fadama III AF project had 1-3 yearly extension visits. It was found that all participants (100%) were members of cooperative groups. The study found that marital status (P<0.01), years of education (P<0.01), household size(P<0.01), membership in cooperative societies (P < 0.01) and farming experience (P < 0.05) were significant factors that influenced rice farmers' level of participation in the Fadama III AF development project. This study has identified the socio-economic characteristics of rice farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria, and the factors that influence their participation in the Fadama III AF development project. It was concluded that marital status, years of education, household size, farming experience and membership in cooperative societies are significant factors that influence farmers' participation in the project. The study recommends that government, project implementers, community leaders, and other stakeholders should build farmers' capacity through training and education and provide farmers with necessary support and guidance in participating in rural and agricultural development project.