Attitudinal and motivational factors influencing job performance of female extension agents in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the attitudinal and motivational factors influencing job
performance of female extension agents in Edo State, Nigeria. A random sample of 35 female extension agents was selected for the study. Findings reveal that the majority of the respondents (57.1%) were in the age group of 31 – 40 years and 82.9% were married while 94.3% had diploma qualification. The most important motivational factors influencing job performance of female extension agents are the opportunity for promotion, growth and in-service training. The majority of the respondents (88.5%) were either satisfied or very satisfied with their job and had a favourable attitude towards their job. Factors that inhibit female extension agents from working in their profession as factors limiting their job performance include lack of incentives, irregular in-service training for staff, the attitude of their male counterparts towards them and the educational level of the female extension agents. Educational qualification and income of the respondents was found to have a significant relationship with respondents' attitude towards their job. It is suggested that
scholarship programmes should be provided for women to study agriculture and appropriate incentives such as transportation, an attractive salary, possibilities of
promotion and growth should be provided for female extension agents.

South African Journal of Agricultural Extension Vol. 35 (2) 2006: pp. 188-198