IMPACT OF FARMERS PERCPTION OF USING ORGANIC MANURE ON THE ONION PRODUCTION IN KUDAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

This study assessed the impacts of farmers’ perception of using organic manure on the onion production in Kudan Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of onion farmers, assess the impacts of using organic manure on income and productivity, and perception of farmers in using organic manure. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 200 respondents for the study. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were male (89.5%) with a mean age of 40.76 years, and most households comprised 10-15 members. Compost manure (53%) was the most widely used organic input due to its availability and effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility. The results indicated that the use of organic manure had a positive impact on the productivity and income of onion farmers. Key socio-economic factors influencing productivity and income-included education, access to extension services where farmers received training on organic manure use, farming experience and the quantity of manure applied. For sustainability and continuous use of organic manure in Kudan LGA. Improving access to organic inputs, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and providing targeted education and training on organic farming practices are critical. These recommendations align with recent policies promoting sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.