Constraints in the implementation of crop protection extension service in south eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Implementation of crop protection extension service in South Eastern Nigeria is mainly by the extension services sub-programme of the States' Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). This they do using the Training and Visit (T&V) extension system. Reports however, indicate general dissatisfaction and ineffectiveness in achieving crop protection targets. Specific constraint factors identified as limiting the implementation of crop protection extension service in the South Eastern Nigerian include: poor management of research information, poor criteria in input distribution, excessive workload on the extension agents and inadequate number of qualified crop protectionists as extension workers. Measures recommended as necessary in improving crop protection extension service include: adequate funding and employment of more qualified research personnel for proper sourcing and management of research information; basing distribution of needed inputs on full time farming criterion, involving more crop protectionists in extension work, removal of non-extension function from extension, provision of logistic supports and periodic staff training on crop protection extension methodology, communication, programme planning and social system.



[Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 23-31]