Examining the socioeconomic factors and biosecurity practices among poultry farmers in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The poultry industry is confronted with substantial challenges arising from infectious diseases, underscoring the critical role of biosecurity in safeguarding farm operations. This study investigates the socioeconomic characteristics and biosecurity practices of poultry farmers, revealing a pronounced gender disparity, with males predominating and female participation remaining limited. The majority of farmers are married, with family support playing a pivotal role in sustaining production activities. Most respondents possess moderate educational backgrounds that facilitate the implementation of fundamental biosecurity measures. Furthermore, the findings indicate that poultry production is primarily small-scale, involving 150 to 1,000 birds, with farmers having 2 to 11 years of experience in the sector. Despite a basic awareness of biosecurity principles, a lack of extensive practical experience persists, signifying the necessity for enhanced training and capacity-building initiatives. Regression analysis demonstrates that education and experience significantly and positively influence the adoption of biosecurity measures, whereas extension visits exhibit a negative correlation. Strengthening educational attainment, providing targeted training programs, and improving access to effective extension services could substantially enhance biosecurity compliance, thereby promoting greater productivity, resilience, and sustainability within the poultry farming.