Determinants of Innovation Uptake in Cassava, Potato, and Rice Value Chains in Nigeria

This study assessed policy, institutional, and structural determinants of innovation uptake in cassava, potato, and rice value chains in Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from 73 respondents in government agricultural agencies and institutions, research institutes, universities, colleges of agriculture, and private-sector actors associated with the cassava, potato, and rice value chains through an online survey administered via Google Forms. Data were analysed using percentages and charts. Results revealed that the greatest potential to support policies for the innovation uptake in the cassava, potato, and rice value chains was the National Policy on Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services (65.3%). Institutional and structural reforms required to improve agricultural innovation uptake include upgrading rural road infrastructure (92.2%), public–private partnership–led seed systems (83.9%), and upgrading rice milling facilities (90.3%). Organising stakeholders into groups for collective learning, resource sharing, and coordinated participation was identifiedas an effective strategy to engage value chain actors. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, together with state ministries, research institutes, and private actors, should strengthen coordination of the cassava, potato, and rice value chains by creating multistakeholder innovation platforms that are jointly planned and periodically reviewed.