Effectiveness of E-wallet scheme in fertilizer distribution to yam farmers in agricultural Zone II of Niger State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Accessibility and affordability of fertilizer for agricultural production has been a challenge for small holder farmers in Nigeria. It is on this basis the study assessed the level of effectiveness of fertilizer distribution to yam farmers via E-wallet scheme in agricultural zone II of Niger State, Nigeria. Interview schedule complimented with questionnaire were used to obtain information from a total of 163 respondents. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentages, mean and ordinary least square (OLS). Farmers mean age was 36 years, majority (97.55%) were male, with an average farming experience of 21 years. There was low level of fertilizer accessibility E- wallet scheme in the area. Although farmers perceived the platform as effective in the procurement of fertilizer, they noted that it was ineffective, as distribution was untimely. OLS regression revealed that years of education, farm size, access to extension service, distance to redemption centre, cooperative society membership, years of registration, major occupation and fertilizer affordability had significant effect on the quantity of fertilizer received by farmers. The major constraints were inadequate quantity of fertilizer allocation, late supply of fertilizer and high transaction cost. The success of mobile phone use for accessing fertilizers was achieved to some extent through the subsidy scheme. It was recommended that more redemption centres should be established to reduce cost of procurement and transport of fertilizer; and that agro-dealers should make proper arrangement with fertilizer companies before the cropping season to guard against late supply of fertilizers.