PERCEPTIONS OF MAIZE FARMERS ON GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISM USAGE IN ORIIRE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

In comparison to other developing continents such as South America and Asia, the acceptance of genetically modified (GM) crop technology to tackle food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria has progressed slowly. Issues persist regarding the possible health benefits and risks associated with consuming genetically modified crops. The study assessed the perception of maize farmers on usage of Genetically Modified Organism crop in Oriire local government area of Oyo state, the specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, identify the GMO crops respondents were aware of, as well as the problem facing usage of GMO crops. In other to achieve these objectives, data were collected from 60 maize farmers, using a well-structured interview schedule. Data collected were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, and mean, Chi-square was used to test the stated hypothesis. The mean age of 53 years was recorded, 53.3% of the respondents were male, while 46.3% were female. it was observed that respondents in the study area were aware of different GMO varieties of maize, respondents largely view GMO maize favorably, especially emphasizing its safety and practical benefits like drought tolerance, food security, and yield improvements, while some concerns about health risks and socio-economic implications exist. Public perception, Cultural and social concerns and Conflicting policies were the top problems facing the usage of GMO crop in the study area. Also, there is an association between Agee (x= 53.400, p= 0.001), Marital status (2=35.267, p=0.000), Religion (2= 39.900, p= 0.000), Academic qualification (2= 38.033, p= 0.001), Secondary occupation (2= 107.167, p= 0.000), Household size ( 2= 22.000, p= 0.001), Annual income (2= 24.000, p= 0.004), Social organization (2= 45.067, p= 0.000) of the respondents and their perception on usage of GMO crops. The study concluded that genetically modified maize varieties are gaining popularity among farmers, who also typically see GMOs favorably, particularly when it comes to safety, yield advantages, and food security. However, issues with information transparency, ethical ramifications, and economic dependency still exist. The study recommended that GMO developers should tailor GMO communication and policy interventions to demographic profiles, respecting age, religion, education, income, and social contexts which will significantly enhance public understanding, reduce resistance, and promote responsible adoption of GMO crops.