Review of Principles of Cereal Science and Technology, 3rd ed.

ABSTRACT

This study examines small ruminants produced by farmers in the Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used in selecting 125 respondents for the study. The majority of the respondents were between the ages of 21?40 years—male, married, and Muslim—with no formal education and a primary occupation of farming. Respondents kept an average stock size of 6–10 goats and 1–5 sheep on a free range. Farmers keep small ruminants as a source of income for spreading risks such as crop failure, for slaughter during social ceremonies, and as a measure of social status. Respondents had occasional contacts with extension agents. Constraints experienced by respondents include theft, lack of capital, drugs, and improved feed. Agricultural development programs should provide livestock extension services to small ruminant farmers and support local sanctions by government enforcement agents.