ASSESSMENT OF SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG FARMERS IN THE NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA ZONES OF KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Declining soil fertility remains a major constraint to agricultural productivity and sustainability in Nigeria’s Guinea Savanna zones. This study assessed soil fertility management practices among  farmers in the Northern and Southern Guinea Savanna zones of Kwara State, Nigeria, with emphasis on the types of practices adopted, socio-economic factors influencing adoption, and major challenges  encountered. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 200 farmers across three local government areas. Primary data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Results showed that most respondents were within the active age range (31–50 years), male, married, and moderately educated, with an average of 6 ha farm size and substantial farming experience. The majority belonged to farmer associations indicating high potential for information sharing and innovation diffusion. Both organic and inorganic fertilizers were widely used; however, the Northern zone relied more on organic inputs due to livestock manure availability, whereas the Southern zone depended on inorganic fertilizers because of better access to input markets. Soil testing awareness was relatively high, but adoption remained low due to high costs, inadequate facilities, and limited technical knowledge. Fertilizer application and crop rotation were the most common soil fertility training topics, while organic manure management received less attention. Major constraints identified includes high input costs, inadequate extension support, soil erosion, and limited access to quality inputs. Farmers largely perceived fertilizers as the most effective fertility restoration method, showing preference for NPK over organic alternatives. The study concludes that although farmers
recognize the importance of soil fertility management, their practices remain conventional and cost driven. In conclusion, the study recommends that strengthening of extension systems, improving access to soil testing services and credit facilities, promoting integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), are required to enhance sustainable productivity across both Guinea Savanna zones and supporting farmer cooperatives.