The feasibility of private integrated agricultural extension services in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Persistently poor funding of the government extension service in Nigeria has reduced its effectiveness to farmers. This has informed farmers\' desire for the private provision of services, even though this implies a financial contribution from them. However, their ability and willingness to take financial responsiblity for extension services has been in doubt. This study therefore aimed to determine the feasibility of a private integrated agricultural extension service (PIAES) in Ogun State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 240 small-scale farmers, extension workers and specialists and agro-allied industries through a structured interview schedule and questionnaire. The results of the study showed that majority (75.8 per cent) of the farmers were willing to pay for and patronize a PIAES, although most of them (80 per cent) have access to Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP) extension services. Extension specialists/workers and subject specialists (93.4 per cent) are willing to establish PIAES in Ogun State. Their access to the OGADEP does not have a significant relationship to their willingness to join a PIAES (r=.003, a>.05), but their access to input services, however, does (r=.421, a<.05). It was concluded that private integrated agricultural extension service is possible in Ogun State, Nigeria. It was recommended that the provision of input services should be added to the present extension service provided by OGADEP and experienced extension specialists, extension workers and subject-matter specialists should be encouraged by government and farmers\' groups to establish PIAES. The study also recommended an organizational modality and structure.

Key words: integrated agricultural extension, private agricultural extension service, private extension service

Journal of Social Development in Africa Vol.20(1) 2005: 59-76