Authors:
Abdulfatah Yusuf, Lawrence Olusola Oparinde, Jimoh Atanda Afolabi
, Joseph Olumide Oseni and Jonathan Ayodele Olowogbayi, Nigeria
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Abstract:
This study examines the determinants of adoption levels of cocoa certification programs among
smallholder farmers in Southwest Nigeria. Cross-sectional data were used and collected with the
aid of a well-designed questionnaire. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 396 respondents
were selected across two states renowned for their cocoa production capacity. Data were
analyzed using an ordered probit regression model to assess the influence of socio-economic,
demographic, and institutional factors on adoption levels. The study found that certification
adopters were predominantly male (79.5%) and aged 31-60 years (76.5%), with higher education
levels and moderate household sizes (4-9 members). Adopters had more farming experience and
medium-sized farms (4-6 hectares). Key factors influencing the level of adoption included age,
household size, gender, education, farm size, farming experience, financial risk, credit
constraints, and access to extension services. Age exhibited a negative and significant effect,
indicating that younger farmers are more likely to adopt certification programs. Household size,
gender, non-cocoa income, collateral, and access to extension services positively influenced
adoption levels. Conversely, financial risk and farm size negatively affected adoption levels,
highlighting the challenges faced by farmers with larger holdings and those exposed to higher
financial risks. Despite certification offering potential benefits such as improved market access
and premium pricing, the adoption rate remains low due to financial and institutional barriers.
The study recommends targeted interventions, including subsidies for certification costs,
enhanced access to credit, strengthened extension services, and gender-inclusive policies, to
promote broader adoption.
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