Factors Influencing the Participation in E- Wallet Scheme by Beneficiaries in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study assessed the sources of information about the E-Wallet Scheme in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The specific objectives include to: identify the source of information about the E-Wallet Scheme; examine the accuracy of information received about the workings of the E-Wallet Scheme; level of information about the workings of the E-Wallet Scheme and determine the factors that influenced the beneficiaries’ participation in the scheme. Data were collected using structured interview schedule with the help of trained enumerators from Kaduna State Agricultural Development Project (KADP). A total of 240 questionnaire were administered to the beneficiaries in the four Zones of KADP that constitute the study area. Descriptive statistics, Ordered logit regression, Z-test and Chi-Square were used in the analysis of data. The beneficiaries indicated that extension workers (55.4%) were the major sources of information on E-Wallet scheme in the study area; this was followed 34.2% who got their information through radio. Also from the results, 85.0% of the farmers indicated that subsidized price was the reason why they engaged in E-Wallet scheme. The results also showed that 51.7% said that payment above the stipulated price was one of the major challenges faced by participants of the scheme; others include political influence and change in goverment policy.It is recommended that the quantity of fertilizer per beneficiary should be increased from two bags to four bags and there should be strict monitoring to curb increase in prices and sale of the inputs by beneficiaries.