Cowpea Farmers’ knowledge and attitudes towards health risks associated with synthetic Insecticide utilization in Nigerian Southern Guinea savannah ecological zone

Abstract

The impacts of insecticide can not be overemphasized in ensuring food security; however, health consequences of these chemicals’ residues in crops remain a big challenge to food safety. The aim of this study was to elucidate Southern Guinea Savannah cowpea farmers’ knowledge of insecticide and safety practices in line with their concern for the health hazards involved through their attitudes. A total of 270 cowpea farmers participated in this study through thorough interview and field observations. Differential and inferential analysis was used for the study. Cypermethrin, Lambda cyhalothrin and Chlorpyrifos were active ingredients of insecticides mostly used in the study area in that order. Majority of the farmers would probably overuse at every application (40% to 50.1%), apply insecticides at almost point of harvest (37.1% to 59.2%) and would most likely not take precautionary measures towards personal protection against insecticide exposure (up to 99.3%). There was a significant (p<0.05)association between education level and appropriate precautionary handling of insecticides which was strong and positive. Educated farmers were hence likely take to recommendation in insecticides application (in dosage and frequency). Majority of farmers’ decision in the choice of insecticides were influenced by the insecticide retailers (68.9% to 77%), which calls for further studies on the insecticides’ knowledge and perception of these retailers. Agricultural extension agents need to be involved in insecticides distribution for appropriate guidance of farmers, and also establish hazardous waste collection service in conjunction with ministry of environment in the study area to curtail indiscriminate disposal of pesticide wastes.