KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF AGROCHEMICAL USAGE AMONG CASSAVA FARMERS IN OVIA NORTH-EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the knowledge and skills of agrochemical usage among cassava farmers in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of Cassava farmers, examine the level of perceived Knowledge the Cassava farmers have in agrochemical usage, determine the level of skill Cassava farmers have in applying agrochemicals effectively and safely and determine the constraints faced by farmers in acquiring the knowledge and skills in agrochemical usage. A total of 90 cassava farmers were selected using a two‑stage sampling technique, and data were collected through structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Findings revealed that most farmers were within the productive age group (x̄ = 42 years), 64.4% were male, and 72.2% had secondary education. All respondents (100%) used agrochemicals, and 57.8% had received some form of training on agrochemical usage. The findings revealed that farmers had high knowledge level for information on agrochemical labels or cans (x̄= 2.98), the different types of agrochemicals for different pests or plant problems (x̄ = 2.57), correct personal protective equipment to use by sprayer(x̄= 2.55), weather can affect spraying chemicals (x̄= 2.96), how to calculate treatment area and calibrate spraying equipment properly (x̄= 2.60), how to safely mix different chemicals for use (x̄= 2.58) and low knowledge levels were recorded for others. Skill levels also varied, select the correct agrochemical for the target pest or crop issue (x̄ =2.08), Measure and mixes agrochemicals accurately with the right tools (x̄= 2.44), Wear appropriate protective equipment (like gloves, masks) during handling and spraying (x̄= 2.08), Apply chemicals without polluting water, harming life or damaging land (x̄= 1.78), Act quickly and safely if you come in contact with dangerous chemicals ((x̄= 1.93), Maintain accurate data of chemical use (x̄= 1.69). Significant constraints included low literacy levels (x̄= 2.63), labels not written in local languages (x̄= 2.51), inaccurate information from fellow farmers (x̄= 2.53), and lack of motivation to attend training (mean = 2.64). The Logistic Regression analysis showed that household size (p = 0.012), annual income (p = 0.001), and training (p = 0.001) significantly influenced knowledge. For skill level, sex (p = 0.014), household size (p = 0.057), farming experience (p = 0.004), income (p = 0.002), and training (p = 0.004) were significant. The study recommends more practical training, better extension support, clearer agrochemical labels in local languages, and improved access to protective equipment to ensure safer and more effective agrochemical use