Investigation of Factors Affecting the Adoption of Improved Food Storage Technologies Among Maize Farmers in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria

Postharvest losses of maize in Nigeria are estimated at 20 to 40 percent annually, driven largely by inadequate storage practices that favour aflatoxin contamination, insect infestation, and moisture damage. This study investigated factors affecting the adoption of improved food storage technologies among maize farmers in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with 240 smallholder maize farmers selected through multistage sampling from four local government areas. Structured questionnaires assessed awareness, access, and adoption of hermetic storage bags, metal silos, and improved traditional cribs. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results showed that while awareness of hermetic storage bags was relatively high at 64 percent, actual adoption was only 22 percent. Key barriers to adoption included high cost, limited access through agro-dealers, and distrust of new technologies. Farmers who had participated in agricultural extension programmes and those with higher farm incomes were more likely to adopt improved storage technologies. Social influence from community leaders and peer farmers also played a significant role. The study recommends that the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency subsidise hermetic storage bags and conduct targeted farmer field school sessions to facilitate adoption among small-scale maize producers. Keywords: food storage, maize, hermetic bags, adoption, Kaduna State