Prospects and perceived implications of hydrponic technology on welfare status of vegetable farmers in Ogun State

Abstract

 Hydroponic technology is increasingly recognized as a viable innovation for enhancing agricultural productivity and farmer welfare in resource-constrained environments. This study investigated the prospects and perceived implications of hydroponic technology on the welfare of vegetable farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 110 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Chisquare, and Spearman rank correlation were employed for data analysis. The results showed that 73.6% of respondents perceived high prospects of hydroponics, while 55.5% were involved in its use, and 51.8% reported positive welfare implications. However, intensive system management requirements (73.6%) emerged as the major constraint to adoption. Household size (r = 0.224), years of hydroponic farming experience (r = −0.189), and drip system use (r = 0.178) were significantly related to farmers’ perceptions of hydroponics, while selected socio-economic characteristics were not significantly associated (p > 0.05). The study concludes that hydroponic technology has substantial potential to improve the welfare of vegetable farmers, although its adoption is constrained by managerial and technical demands. It recommends targeted interventions, particularly capacity building, improved access to finance, and the provision of cost-effective systems, to enhance adoption and maximize its benefits.