Abstract
This study examines the determinants of the intensity of cocoa rehabilitation techniques adoption (CRTs) in Ondo State, Nigeria. Cross-sectional data were obtained from 150 cocoa farmers selected through a multistage sampling procedure and analyzed using descriptive statistics and ordered logit regression. The results reveal that most farmers operated at a moderate level of CRT adoption, with an average age of 51 years, household size of 10, and mean cocoa tree age of 19 years. The ordered logit results indicated that tertiary education, the interaction between education and farming experience, widespread adoption index, yield percentage, and farmers’ age significantly increased the likelihood of higher adoption intensity. In contrast, the area covered by rehabilitation and farm size exerted significant negative influences, suggesting that scale-related constraints hinder intensive adoption. The findings highlight the central role of human capital, social diffusion, and productivity incentives in promoting rehabilitation efforts. The study recommends strengthening farmer education and extension training, fostering peer-to-peer learning platforms, and providing targeted support for farmers managing large rehabilitation areas. Enhancing community awareness and integrating yield improvement programs with rehabilitation initiatives are also essential for accelerating sustainable cocoa recovery in the region.