Psychological Effects of Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Poultry Production in South West, Nigeria

• S. A. Oni

  Department of Agricultural Extension and Management, Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

  Author

• S.D.Y. Alfred

  Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

  Author

• B.O. Akinwalere

  Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

  Author

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant psychological stress in communities worldwide, with increased anxiety and worry stemming from reports of rising COVID-19 cases. This study focuses on the psychological effects of the pandemicinduced lockdown on poultry production in southwest Nigeria, particularly among small-scale farmers. The research employed a multi-stage sampling procedure and analysed data using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicate that a significant portion (39.0%) of respondents were between 41-50 years, with majority males (61%). The majority (78%) were married, and 61.1% had completed tertiary education. The primary fear among farmers was incurring debt and concerns about repayment. The frustration by the lockdown was reflected in respondents' inability to meet their poultry production goals, restlessness about various aspects of life, and fear of contracting COVID-19. Financial worries were identified as the most severe stressor, followed by unnecessary worry due to the pandemic. Market instability and poor sales (78%) were identified as the most substantial constraints faced by farmers, further exacerbating their stress levels. The study concluded that the farmers recognized the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on their production, which subsequently had profound and adverse effects on their mental health. The study recommends emphasis on integration of psychology and personality studies into the field of agriculture as this will enhance proficiency of agricultural experts in identifying various personality traits, thereby enriching their understanding and effectiveness in the field.

1. S. A. Oni, Department of Agricultural Extension and Management, Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Management, Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

2. S.D.Y. Alfred, Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

3. B.O. Akinwalere, Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

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