MODERN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN KARU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

This study employed a descriptive research design to investigate occupational hazards and safety measures associated with modern agricultural practices in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected through structured interviews, surveys, direct observations, and focus group discussions involving agricultural workers, farm managers, and extension officers. Secondary data from government reports and academic literature supplemented the analysis. Using a representative sample selected via multi-stage sampling, the study applied descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and regression techniques to assess the adoption of mechanization, agrochemicals, improved seeds, irrigation, crop diversification, and digital agricultural technologies. Findings reveal significant uptake of agrochemicals (68.2%) and crop diversification (58.2%), moderate mechanization adoption (37.9%), and low use of irrigation (29.2%) and digital tools (21.3%). Barriers such as cost, limited training, infrastructure deficits, and digital illiteracy hinder broader adoption. The study underscores the need for targeted subsidies, extension services, and rural connectivity programs to enhance safety and productivity in Karu’s agricultural sector.