Application of e-information for Fall Armyworm control among maize farmers in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the application of electronic messages on Fall Armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) disseminated to farmers in Southwestern Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling method was used to select 205 maize farmers. Using ex-post factor research design, electronic information on FAW were broadcast to farmers through formats such as voice calls and text messages. Each of the respondents received five batches of voice calls and text messages in English and Yoruba Languages for 2 – 3 weeks. Data were collected on the suitability of e-message, perception and constraints to electronic information use. Data collected were described and analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and linear regression at ?0.05. Mean age of respondents was 40years and 69.3% could communicate in Yoruba while only 39.9% understood the English language. Majority of the farmers expressed unfavourable perception to the use of e-messages for FAW information. Constraints identified with e-message use were related to the poor interactivity of the medium, though suitable for 55.6% of the respondents. Level of education and perception were major determinants of the suitability of e-messages disseminated. Thus, dissemination of e-messages to farmers using local languages was advocated in agricultural interventions.