Assessing the Effects of Coordination and Cooperation Strategies among Cassava Processing Farmers in Kogi and Nasarawa States, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Considering the need to have formidable sense of direction among cassava farmers’ organization in Nigeria to attain position of global leaders in cassava production, processing and exporting to other countries, coordination and cooperation among cassava farmers’ organization are essential ingredients for cohesive strategies that will strengthen the interpersonal network and inter-group relationship. Aim: This study examined the influence of coordination and cooperation strategies among cassava processing farmers' organizations in Kogi and Nasarawa States, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of members and non-members, assessed the effectiveness of coordination and cooperation strategies employed, and identified constraints to their optimal utilization in enhancing cassava production and processing. Method: A multistage random sampling technique and the Taro Yamane formula were applied to select 456 respondents — comprising 304 cassava farmers (152 members and 152 non-members) from Kogi State and 152 farmers (76 members and 76 non-members) from Nasarawa State — drawn across agro-ecological zones. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and mean scores derived from a Likert-type scale. Results: Findings revealed that females constituted the majority of cassava processors across both membership categories in both states. Strategies including Information Communication Technology, resource and fund mobilization, trust and unity of purpose, division of labour, and public-private partnership recorded mean scores ranging from 2.5 to 2.9, indicating effectiveness in enhancing farmers' capacity, knowledge, attitude, and skills for cassava processing and marketing. Conversely, intergroup relationship, team reasoning, and unhealthy competition recorded low mean scores (1.6–1.9), reflecting ineffectiveness in advancing organizational goals. Conclusion: Major constraints identified included inadequate extension services, weak communication and participatory linkages, high processing costs, and poor marketing infrastructure, while government policy inadequacy was not perceived as a significant barrier. The study recommends increased public and private investment in modern processing technologies to strengthen value addition within cassava farmers' organizations.