Usage of demand-driven extension services by farmers in agricultural zones in Niger state, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the usage of demand-driven extension services by farmers in agricultural zones in Niger State, Nigeria. To achieve the study objectives, multi-stage sampling technique was used to select a total of 377 respondents for the study. Validated interview schedule was used to generate data for the study. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Result of the study showed that majority (60.7%) of the respondents used demand-driven extension services four times in a year. Finding also indicated that majority of the respondents demanded for information on storage, improved seeds/planting materials and processing technologies. The result of analysis of variance further revealed that there was significant difference in the usage of demand-driven extension services by farmers in the agricultural zones (F=31.09, P<0.05). It was therefore recommended that demand-driven extension service providers should make concerted efforts to sensitize the farmers to make them more receptive of their services. In order to create condition for optimal performance of service providers in the agricultural zones, it was suggested that government should consider the feasibility of agro-diversity approach to demand-driven extension service delivery.

Key Words: Demand-driven, Extension, Usage, Agricultural Zones, Niger State