Knowledge and Use of Biosecurity Measures in Poultry Production in Ekiti State

ABSTRACT
This study assess knowledge and use of biosecurity measures among poultry farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The research aimed to examine the socioeconomic characteristics of poultry farmers, evaluate their level of biosecurity knowledge, assess the various biosecurity measures employed, determine the extent of their implementation, and identify factors influencing the knowledge and the use of biosecurity measures. A sample of 120 respondents was selected from four Local Government Areas across two Agricultural Development Program (ADP) zones of the state. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using the Probit regression model, multiple response analysis, and the Likert scale. The findings revealed that the average age of poultry farmers were 49 years, with female farmers (60%) being more involved than males (40%). Most respondents were married (52.5%), while education levels varied, with 15.8% having no formal education and only 5% attaining tertiary education. The average farming experience was 11.46 years, and civil servants (35%) constituted the largest group of poultry farmers. Limited access to credit facilities (61.7%) and poor extension services (55%) were identified as their major challenges. Farmers demonstrated strong knowledge of vaccination (64.2%) and disease isolation (63.3%), but lower awareness of zoonotic diseases (42.5%) and general biosecurity practices (47.5%). Compliance with biosecurity measures varied, with high adherence to vaccination (mean = 3.97) but weaker implementation of waste management (mean = 2.58) and farm access control (mean = 2.43). Probit regression analysis revealed that marital status, education, and access to credit significantly influenced biosecurity knowledge and it adoption. Older farmers were more likely to adopt biosecurity practices, whereas larger farm sizes negatively impacted adoption rates. The study highlights the need for enhanced financial support, improved extension services, and targeted training to strengthen biosecurity practices among poultry farmers. The study concludes that while poultry farmers in Ekiti State demonstrate knowledge of some key biosecurity practices, gaps in awareness and implementation persist due to financial and institutional constraints. To enhance biosecurity compliance, the study recommends expanding access to agricultural credit, strengthening extension services, enforcing biosecurity regulations, and increasing awareness campaigns to improve farmers' understanding and adoption of biosecurity measures.