Maize Seed Supply Systems and Implications for Seed Sector Development in Southwestern Nigeria

ABSTRACT

This study examines the seed supply system for maize production in Southwestern Nigeria in order to characterise the local seed system and to assess the potentials of the maize seed sector in the development of sustainable crop improvement and enhanced agricultural productivity. Using structured questionnaires, a seed survey was conducted among 94 farmers randomly sampled from 5 farm settlement locations covering 3 states in the region. The data collected were subjected to descriptive analysis of simple proportions and percentages. All improved varieties on the sampled farms were the IITA elite varieties. At all locations, the percentage of total land area cultivated with the seeds of improved varieties ranged from 71 to 100%, while percentage of land area sown with local varieties ranged from 0 to 29%. Seed use in terms of volume followed the same pattern. The highest proportion of farmers (about 50%) who planted improved varieties used seeds from previously saved harvests, while 25% procured them from extension agents, 17% bought them from seed dealers, 5% from research institutes and the farmer-to-farmer exchange was negligible. About 39% of farmers used improved varieties for high crop yields, 24% for disease resistance and 22% for market preferences, whereas local varieties were cultivated by 37% of farmers because of market preferences and availability, 16% because of low cost and 12% because of disease resistance. The implications of the results on sustainable economic development of the seed industry and suggestions for strengthening of the commercial seed sector are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• African maize
• crop improvement
• economic sustainability
• seed industry development