Perception of Cassava and Maize Farmers on the Effectiveness of Agricultural Information Channels in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the perception of arable crop farmers on the effectiveness of agricultural information channels in adopting good agricultural practices in southwest Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 respondents for the study. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule and analysed with percentages and mean. The study revealed that most (94.2%) respondents had access to radio and agricultural extension. The results revealed that farmers ranked very high, in terms of the level of access to eight out of the ten channels listed. Radio and extension agents were rated as very effective channels. Television, telephone calls, SMS, recorded audio, WhatsApp, film shows, written materials, and Facebook were rated as effective. Low disposable income (57.7%) and Inadequate infrastructures (51.5%) were the major limitations associated with the effectiveness of agricultural information channels. Agricultural extension visits can be concluded to be the most preferred channel by the farmers. It is recommended that agricultural development projects (ADPs) ensure that agricultural information is packaged and disseminated through channels preferred by the farmers. The government should put in more funds to support agricultural extension services.