This study examined the participation of farmers in the International
Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) spear grass (Imperata cylindrica)
control project, which used the participatory research and extension
paradigm. A sample of 60 small-scale yam farmers from three districts of
Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State who participated in the IITA
spear grass control project were randomly selected and interviewed in
this study. Descriptive statistics were employed in data analysis. The
result of the study indicated that majority (80%) of the participants
sourced herbicides from open markets, 98.3% perceived that the cost of
herbicides was high, 75% could use herbicides, 73.3% were not visited by
extension agents, 71.7% did not belong to any social organization, while
all the participants had no access to credit. However, the farmers were
satisfied with the operation of 6 out of 12 project activities. The study also
revealed that involvement of participants in project activities was highest
at the consultative level where key decisions were made by project
officials and farmers only contributed their views. The study concluded
that participation of farmers in IITA spear grass control project has not
empowered them with the skills, knowledge and experiences to take
greater responsibility of increasing yam production and productivity. The
results call for strategies aimed at improving farmers’ participation in
similar projects to enable them attain a level where they can c