AWARENESS OF ECOLOGICAL ORGANIC AGRICULTURE IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF EDO STATE

Ecological organic agriculture is a production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activities. It is based on a minimal use of off-farm inputs and management practices, to restore, maintain or enhance ecological harmony. The primary reason for organic agriculture is the need to optimise the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil, plant, animal and people. A survey was conducted to determine the level of awareness of organic agriculture among 300 crop farmers in three (3) communities within five (5) Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Edo State through the use of structured questionnaires. Study data were analysed using frequency distribution and percentages. The results revealed that most of the farmers were married and between ages from 21 to 30 years. Majority of them had household size that comprised 3 to 5 members and have had post primary school education. Farmers perception of organic farming was also in tune with the organic farming requirements that no use of inorganic fertilizer be involved in farming. Most respondents were aware of organic agriculture through internet and their peers. Further evaluation of respondents revealed strong correlation between the beneficial effects of organic agriculture on man’s health and the environment. Based on the study findings, it is recommended that government should intervene to facilitate the adoption of organic agriculture in order to eradicate extreme hunger, poverty and ensure environmental sustainability.