Cassava Production and Poverty Eradication Among Crop Farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria

Poverty is a condition in which one cannot generate sufficient income required to secure minimum standard of living or a sustainable life. Various government administrations have stressed the need for self employment through engaging in agriculture which is a veritable tool for poverty eradication. This study was carried out in Ondo State, Nigeria to assess how cassava production can assist in the eradication of poverty among crop farmers. A total of 70 respondents were sampled and information was elicited from them through the use of interview schedules. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used in analyzing the data. The study shows that majority (71.43%) of the respondents were males and married, with family sizes of between 6-10 persons (55.71%). Most of them (77.14%) had formal education. Results from the study also showed that the knowledge of cassava production is rife among the farmers. Majority of them (71.43%) had farming experience of between 7-12 years. The study revealed that 65.71% realized between N10,000-N20,00 monthly ($67-134). Constraints such as lack of adequate fund and pest infestation are the prominent constraints faced by the farmers. Multiple regression analysis shows an R2 value of 0.69. The study therefore recommends that efforts be employed to improve the production of cassava and extension services be made accessible to farmers since cassava production is a veritable tool in alleviating poverty