Authors : Rita Uzezi Oyibo; Oritsematosan Marian Ogbede; Adaighofua Obue

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/rk4cvvyh

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr1256

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Abstract : This study examined crop biofortification as a way to address nutritional diseases among rural farmers in the Okpe Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, Nigeria. "hidden hunger", referring to micronutrient deficiencies such as vitamin A, Iron, and Zinc. These are common in rural communities that depend on low -nutrient staple crops. The researchers used a descriptive survey design, with data through a structured questionnaire from 364 rural farmers in Okpe LGA. They analyzed the data using mean, standard deviation, and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that farmers had a high level of awareness (Cluster Mean = 2.63) about biofortified crops and their health benefits. Adoption and utilization low (Cluster Mean = 2.34), mainly due to a shortage of planting materials (Mean = 3.42) and infrequent visits from agricultural extension agents (Mean = 3.27). Despite the low adoption rates, farmers adopted these crops reported a High Positive Impact (Cluster Mean = 2.97) on their household health, reporting increased energy levels and fewer visible nutritional deficiencies. Hypothesis testing findings indicated positive relationship between awareness and adoption (r = 0.642) and a significant correlation between adoption and the reduction of nutritional diseases (r = 0.588). The study also found no significant difference in how male and female farmers perceived health impacts (p = 0.651). However, there was a significant negative relationship (r = -0.412) between implementation challenges and the effectiveness of the programme. In conclusion, while biofortification is an effective health intervention, its success in Okpe LGA is hampered by supply chain issues and socio-cultural resistance to the appearance of biofortified staples. The study recommended that the Delta State Ministry of Agriculture should establish decentralized systems to improve access to these crops.

Keywords : Crop Biofortification, Nutritional Diseases, Rural Farmers, Okpe LGA, Delta State, Nigeria, Micronutrient Intake, Malnutrition, Sustainable Agriculture.

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