ABSTRACT:

When there are disruptions in the social system generally, there is a potential disruption to the food system. Importantly, different food are likely to be affected differently. This study examined the COVID-19 safety practices information use among leafy vegetable farmers in Edo state, Nigeria. Data on respondents’ socio-economic characteristics, awareness of Covid-19 safety practices, information sources available, accessible and preference, COVID-19 safety practices information use and challenges on COVID-19 safety practices information were collected from randomly selected 102 leafy vegetables farmers. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentage, mean and binary logistic regression model. Findings reveal that most of the farmers were above 50 years of age (56.3%), married (65.6%) and 44.8% had primary education. Farmers are awareness of safety practices like covering of the mouth when coughing and sneezing (Mean=3.38) and cleaning and disinfecting of environment (Mean=3.18). Family and Friends (95%) served as the major source of information for the farmers, while fear of getting vaccinated (M=4.20) and too many contradicting information on Covid-19 (M=4.07) were the major challenge faced by farmers. However, Household size (r =2.12, p=0.05) was significantly related to farmers’ information use. In conclusion, Extension organisations as well as other media agencies that have responsibility for agricultural information dissemination should focus on these key areas to ensure the respondents stay healthy as the disease is deadly thus securing continuous leafy vegetables production and supply necessary for balanced food diet.