Analysis of factors influencing the output of improved rice varieties among small-scale farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

This study investigates the socioeconomic and operational factors influencing the output of Improved Rice Varieties (IRVs) among small-scale farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Utilizing primary data collected through a field survey in 2018, the research employed descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis to achieve its objectives. The findings reveal a significant level of IRV adoption, with an average of 60.9% of total rice land allocated to IRVs, and popular varieties including FARO 44, ITA 306, MAS 11, and NERICA 8. Despite this, the average paddy rice output from IRVs (1318.4 kg or 1.69 tons/ha) indicates a substantial yield gap when compared to optimal potential, suggesting limitations in realizing the full benefits of these varieties. Perceived operational factors highlight access to credit (2.73), cost of inputs (2.62), location of swamp and land type (2.67), and transplanting practices (2.55) as major constraints. The multiple regression analysis, with an R-squared of 0.907 and a significant F-ratio of 106.34 (p < 0.01), identified farming experience, farm size, and membership in a cooperative as significant positive determinants of paddy rice output from IRVs, all conforming to a priori expectations. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions focusing on improving credit access, ensuring affordable inputs, supporting appropriate agronomic practices, and strengthening farmer cooperatives to bridge the yield gap and enhance food security and livelihoods in the State.