ANALYSIS OF THE ADOPTION OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES AMONG FARMERS OF ARABLE CROPS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examines the socioeconomic factors influencing the adoption of good agricultural practices (GAPs) among arable crop farmers in Borno State, Nigeria. Using a sample size of 390 respondents, socioeconomic characteristics and adoption levels were collected. The descriptive statistics revealed that the majority of the respondents were male (73.85%), married (76.15%), and had tertiary education (36.15%). The average age was 43 years, and the household size was 8 and the farm size was 3.31 hectares.  A majority (90.26%) of farmers adopted GAPs, with 75.28% exhibiting majority adoption levels. Logit regression analysis identified farm size (p < 0.05), cooperative membership (p < 0.01), and access to credit (p < 0.01) as significant predictors of GAP adoption. The findings recommend that addressing key barriers, including input accessibility, credit facilities, and cooperative participation, is required to promote GAP adoption in Borno State. Targeted policy interventions, efficient extension services, and security improvements are crucial for regional sustainable agricultural development.  Improved Input Supply: To boost GAP adoption, government and development agencies should ensure timely and adequate provision of essential inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides at subsidized rates. Access to credit significantly influences GAP adoption. Government agencies, financial institutions, and cooperatives should develop flexible, low-interest credit schemes. Additionally, improving market access through better infrastructure, price stabilization policies, and digital marketing platforms will encourage adoption by ensuring profitability.