Biosecurity Compliance among Swine Farmers in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined compliance with biosecurity practices among intensive swine farmers in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was adopted in selecting 80 swine farmers for the study. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire, while descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were employed for data analysis. Findings reveal that farmers were largely within their economically active age group (42 years), maintained moderate herd sizes (21 pigs). High cost of biosecurity materials (56.3%) and limited access to veterinary services were identified as major constraints. The regression results indicated that socioeconomic and institutional factors significantly influenced biosecurity compliance. Household size (β = 0.944; p < 0.01), education (β = 0.084; p < 0.01), and biosecurity awareness (β = 6.320; p < 0.01) positively influenced compliance. The study concludes that compliance with biosecurity practices among intensive swine farmers is significantly shaped by farmers' socioeconomic characteristics and their level of awareness of biosecurity measures. Enhancing farmer education, awareness programmes, and veterinary support services is essential for improving biosecurity compliance and minimizing disease risks in swine production systems.