Determinants of Extent and Intensity of Improved Rice Variety Utilization Among Small-Holder Farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

This study investigated the determinants of extent and intensity of improved rice variety (IRV) utilization among small-holder farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, a significant rice-producing region in the South-East. Recognizing the crucial role of IRVs in enhancing agricultural productivity, the study aimed to determine the current utilization patterns and identify factors influencing the intensity of IRV utilization. A multi-stage and purposive sampling technique was used to select 120 small-scale rice farmers (cultivating < 3 ha). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Intensity of Improved Rice Variety Utilization (IIRVU) Index. Farmers' perceptions of influencing factors were assessed using a 3-point Likert scale and mean score analysis. Results indicate a high extent of IRV utilization, with FARO 44 (86.67%), ITA 306 (73.33%), MAS 11 (68.33%), and NERICA 8 (60.33%) being the most extensively adopted and utilized varieties. FARO 44, in particular, demonstrated significant post-adoption utilization, consistent with prior research attributing its preference to early maturity and high yield potential. The average rice land area sown with IRVs was 0.78 hectares, representing 60.94% of the total rice cultivated land. This indicates a moderate intensity of IRV utilization, suggesting a substantial integration of modern rice cultivation practices, yet also highlighting continued reliance on traditional varieties. Key factors significantly influencing the intensity of IRV utilization included availability of improved seeds (mean = 2.60), farm location (mean = 2.63), quality of rice (mean = 2.48), cost of improved seeds (mean = 2.40), access to credit (mean = 2.38), and land type (mean = 2.40). The physical accessibility of seeds emerged as the most critical determinant. These findings underscore that economic and logistical challenges, rather than solely awareness, are primary impediments to increased IRV utilization. Therefore, to further enh