TREND OF CASSAVA YIELD/PRODCUTION IN IN KOGI EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT, KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the trends in cassava yield and production in the Kogi East Senatorial District of Kogi State, Nigeria, focusing on the perceptions of local farmers regarding yield changes over the past five years and the factors influencing these trends. A total of 403 respondents were surveyed, revealing that 71.3% of the farmers perceived an increase in cassava yields, while 28.7% reported stable yields. The primary factors contributing to the perceived increase included the use of improved cassava varieties (58.1%) and climate variability (41.9%). Furthermore, the statistical analysis indicated a stationary R-squared value of 0.792, suggesting a robust model fit for predicting future production trends. Forecasts indicated a steady increase in cassava production per hectare from 2024 to 2033, with projected yields rising from 17.33 tons per hectare in 2024 to 18.54 tons per hectare by 2033. Despite these positive trends, the study identified significant challenges posed by climate variability, with 76.7% of respondents recognizing a high impact on production. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, including the promotion of climate-resilient cassava varieties, improved access to quality planting materials, and the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. Overall, this study provides critical insights into the cassava production landscape in Kogi East and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to enhance productivity and ensure food security in the region.